Jakobe Thomas Supports Hurricanes, Honors UM Legend
Jakobe Thomas, a senior safety for the Miami Hurricanes, has a profound connection to the program and its legacy. He honors legendary player Sean Taylor, who was tragically killed in 2007, by writing Taylor’s name on his uniform. This homage reflects Thomas’ admiration and desire to emulate Taylor’s impactful style of play.
Jakobe Thomas’ Journey to Miami
Before joining the Hurricanes, Thomas played three seasons at Middle Tennessee State and transferred to Tennessee for one season. However, he sought a new opportunity for his final year and found it at Miami, which had a pressing need for defensive backs. He was drawn to the program’s culture, emphasized by head coach Mario Cristobal.
Impact on Team Performance
In his inaugural year with Miami, Thomas has proven to be a key contributor on a revamped defense. He has played a critical role in helping the No. 10 Hurricanes achieve an 11-2 record, culminating in a spot in the College Football Playoff quarterfinals. They are set to face the No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes in the Cotton Bowl.
- Thomas has recorded 58 tackles and four interceptions during the season.
- He has achieved four tackles for loss, four pass breakups, two forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries.
- His overall defense grade of 84.3 ranks him 11th among 205 safeties with at least 600 snaps.
Honoring a Legacy
Thomas is driven by the legacy of past Hurricanes greats and seeks to contribute to the program’s revival. He believes in carrying forward the tradition established by all-time greats like Sean Taylor. His performance and dedication reflect the honor he feels in being part of such a historic program.
As Miami looks to reclaim its former glory, Thomas embraces the opportunity to leave a lasting impact during his time with the Hurricanes. He approaches every practice with the intent to improve, focusing on both personal growth and team success. His ambition is to inspire future generations, just as Taylor inspired him.
