12. Miami Dolphins
Earl Thomas, S, Texas
The Dolphins had two fine rookie corners last year but really need a safety who can play coverage. Right now they play with two strong safety types. Thomas can also demonstrate corner skills and match up with the slot wide receivers, like Wes Welker, in their division.
Safeties our final act of Indy Combine coverage
The NFL Combine officially ended Tuesday when the defensive back were put through their paces at the Lucas Oil Can.
And there are varying opinions of players that improved their stock and those whose stock dropped like Toyota, including this view from Sports Illustrated.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/f ... itter_feedHere we've got our own personal scout and Chris Cordero watched the drills and delivered this assessment of what he saw:
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Earl Thomas was impressive. Coming in 12 pounds heavier than his regular playing weight and still running a 4.49 40-yard dash is big. He is another player that has CB skills at the safety position - displaying excellent footwork and good ball skills (though he did drop a ball on one drill that I saw). He looked fluid in his backpedal and turning and opening his hips to run with the receiver. He also displayed good upper body strength with 21 reps in the bench. He is a Top 15 talent in this deep draft; and at only 20 years old he should get better. Among the nation's leaders in interceptions and passes defended, he is a playmaker and would allow a defense many options with his supreme coverage skills. Should be in the conversation at #12.