Starling Thomas V

Career StatsD+

Year	Team	GP	INT	PD	Tkl
Career		29	—	11	85
2024		17	0	6	47
2023		12	0	5	38

Updated Jan 1, 1970

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

The Cardinals struck gold with Starling Thomas V's one-year, $1.5M deal, earning an A- CVI that screams "low-risk, high-reward gamble." At just $1.5M AAV for a rotational cornerback, Arizona is paying replacement-level money for a player who brings legitimate NFL experience and developmental upside to their secondary depth chart. The minimal $300K guarantee makes this essentially a zero-risk proposition — if Thomas doesn't pan out in training camp or early in the season, the Cardinals can cut bait without meaningful financial consequences. This type of contract structure is exactly what smart front offices should be doing with rotational pieces: secure adequate depth at bargain prices while maintaining maximum roster flexibility. For a team that needs to shore up its defensive backfield without breaking the bank, locking up Thomas at this price point represents shrewd roster building that could pay dividends if he develops into a reliable contributor.

Performance Analysis

Starling Thomas V's D+ grade with the Cardinals captures a young cornerback showing promise in Arizona's developing secondary. The rookie has demonstrated the kind of competitive spirit and physical coverage ability that NFL teams look for in young corners. His D+ reflects a player who is getting his feet wet at the professional level while showing enough to warrant continued development. Thomas' ball skills and willingness to be physical at the line of scrimmage have been encouraging signs. Arizona's secondary needs long-term answers, and Thomas could develop into one with patience. He's the type of young corner whose grade should improve significantly in Year 2 as the game slows down for him.

Fan Sentiment

A high-risk depth re-signing complicated heavily by a torn ACL suffered during his previous stint. Multiple headlines confirm Thomas V is heading to IR, making this essentially a future roster bet. The torn ACL is the dominant red flag, sidelining him for the foreseeable future. Fans are split — loyalty to a homegrown player versus the reality of a significant injury setback. Thomas V must fully recover and compete for a roster spot before this signing carries any real value.