In his seven-round mock draft, ESPN draft analyst Matt Miller projects that the Pittsburgh Steelers will draft former Florida State cornerback Azareye’h Thomas with the 21st pick, while the Kansas City Chiefs will acquire former FSU defensive tackle Joshua Farmer with the 66th selection through a trade with the Tennessee Titans.
Miller commented on the Steelers’ potential selection of Thomas, stating:
“…I have [the Steelers] selecting a key defensive piece to offset an aging roster and past draft misses. Thomas, a 6-foot-2, 197-pound cornerback, possesses the speed to excel in press coverage and hold his own in man-to-man situations. Despite starting just one season at Florida State, he effectively limited targets.”
A standout performance at the Senior Bowl propelled him into first-round consideration, and he would pair well with third-year corner Joey Porter Jr. With Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins secured long-term in Cincinnati, the Steelers could use all the coverage support they can get.
Despite some challenging moments during the 2024 season, Thomas was a standout performer for the ‘Noles. He started all 12 games, recording 52 tackles, two tackles for loss, four pass breakups, and one interception. Thomas also led the team in snaps played (755), nearly 200 more than the next closest defender, Patrick Payton (579).
If Thomas is selected in the first round, it would mark the second consecutive year—and the third time in the last four years—that Florida State has produced a top-32 pick.
Additionally, Miller shared his thoughts on the Kansas City Chiefs trading up to select Farmer.
“It’s been a constant shuffle at defensive tackle alongside Chris Jones, but Farmer’s skill set as a 1-technique makes him an ideal fit next to the likely future Hall of Famer.”
– Matt Miller, ESPN Draft Analyst
Farmer delivered strong performances for the ‘Noles throughout his four-year collegiate career.
The Florida State defensive tackle appeared in 42 games, tallying 80 total tackles, 21 tackles for loss, 11 sacks, two pass deflections, and one forced fumble.
The 2025 NFL Draft is set to take place in Green Bay, Wisconsin, from April 24-26.
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