Azareye'h Thomas taking early advantage in battle for starting cornerback gig

The New York Jets have multiple battles for starting spots going on throughout training camp, and arguably the most interesting is the one happening between second-year cornerback Azareye'h Thomas and veteran addition Nahshon Wright.

The Jets, in all likelihood, are hoping Thomas can take hold of the starting gig opposite incumbent starter Brandon Stephens. After all, they invested a third-round pick in him in the 2025 NFL Draft.

But Wright offers something that no Jets cornerback had last season, and that's a nose for the football. The former Chicago Bear recorded five interceptions, five more than any defender had for New York in 2025.

Both players have had their chances to shine throughout camp. Wright seemed to take an early advantage in OTAs, but recent developments suggest Thomas may be gaining an advantage.

Nahshon Wright injury could provide Azareye'h Thomas an early start at New York Jets camp

According to the New York Post's Brian Costello, who was in attendance at Jets training camp this week, Wright missed the last two days of practice with a hip injury.

In his absence, Thomas surely has gotten more reps with the first-team defense, and it should only help in his bid to win the Week 1 starting job.

According to Sports Illustrated's Nick Faria, Thomas stood out with a pass breakup while covering star wide receiver Garrett Wilson.

"On the outside, New York loved what it saw. Azareye'h Thomas, the third-round pick from last year, recorded a pass breakup against Garrett Wilson that saw him record excellent coverage on a deep route."

The competition between Thomas and Wright should only heat up as training camp rolls along. Wright is likely raring to get back on the field, as any missed time can only be perceived as a net negative.

Both players offer something the other one can't. Thomas seems to be a more naturally gifted coverage cornerback, while Wright, more volatile in coverage, seems to have an easier time plucking the ball out of the air from opposing quarterbacks.

It all depends on which skill Aaron Glenn and Brian Duker prefer for their defense, and if Stephens' own skill-set is any indication, it feels like the Jets defense values better coverage skills.

Of course, there's plenty of practice and preseason to go before any decision is made on the final starting cornerback spot. In the meantime, fans can watch closely as the two talented defenders duke it out.

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Follow