Terrell Thomas

Thomas is looking to make it back from the third ACL tear on the same knee. If he succeeds he'll have a role on passing downs.

Even though he’s returning from an August ACL tear, there is reason to think Thomas will be one of the top IDP defensive backs in 2012. He claims his recovery is ahead of schedule, and it’s difficult to imagine the Giants would have given Thomas a four-year, $28 million contract in March had they disagreed with that assessment. With 196 tackles (151 solo), two sacks, 10 interceptions (one returned for a touchdown), 34 passes defended and five forced fumbles between 2009 and 2010, Thomas has conclusively demonstrated a rare ability to post numbers that are both big and balanced. His standout skills are complemented by a context ideal for IDP production – he plays in a pass-first division and has what might be the league’s best pass rush forcing quarterbacks to make bad decisions. UPDATE: he re-injured the ACL in training camp, putting his status for the season in question.

Quarterbacks still target Thomas with a surprisingly high frequency, but his IDP owners won’t complain. Thomas totaled 10 interceptions, 34 passes defended and five forced fumbles the last two years. Thanks to all the attention he gets, Thomas finished 2010 with 101 tackles (81 solo) in addition to the other gaudy numbers. The arrival of first-round cornerback pick Prince Amukamara could result in a bit less activity for Thomas in 2011, both in terms of a lower snap total as well as fewer targets from opposing quarterbacks. But the USC product should keep putting up productive and well-rounded IDP numbers.

With incumbents Corey Webster and Aaron Ross struggling with injuries and generally poor play, Thomas stepped up to become the G-Men’s top cover corner — grabbing five picks and taking one to the house while generating tackle numbers (85) you’d expect from a safety. That’s an outstanding combination for an IDP cornerback. Interception and touchdown numbers are tough to project from year-to-year, but cornerbacks who actually get stops are very valuable, especially in leagues that require IDP corners. Thomas is expected to start opposite Webster in 2010.

Athletic reserve cornerback will back up Aaron Ross and Corey Webster.

Second-round draft pick will play a reserve role in a deep secondary.