Thomas, a Clemson product, is mounted as a versatile edge option for Arizona. With 2024 stats of 2.5 sacks and 10 tackles in 14 games, his 2025 preseason surge (six tackles, two sacks in three games) signals growth. He sits behind Sweat and rookie Burch on the depth chart but offers deployability and high-motor plays that could earn him a niche rotation role.

Thomas is in a tight outside LB battle with four locks ( Sweat, Collins, Browning, Burch ). Ojulari’s PUP status acts as a wild card; if Ojulari is healthy early, Thomas faces a hard cut. His future hinges on readiness and special-teams value as depth grows.

Thomas posted five tackles, two sacks, five quarterback hits, and a fumble recovery, staking a claim as a young edge presence behind the top linebackers. His all-around disruptive impact signals a possible rotational role and special-teams value depending on roster moves.

Thomas, like Burch, is in a pivotal competition for edge depth. His performance could determine whether he becomes a regular in the first-half rotations or remains in a situational role, particularly if Ojulari returns slowly and the team needs edge pressure.

Xavier Thomas, the fifth-round draft pick from Clemson, had a solid rookie year for the Cardinals with notable stats, including 2.5 sacks and a forced fumble. With a crucial second year ahead, he is expected to elevate his performance in a competitive edge-rusher group.