Virginia defensive backs coach Curome Cox was an All-ACC safety at Maryland and played three seasons in the NFL, but even he is enviable of his new safety Corey Thomas Jr.

“Well I wish I was him, I’ll tell you that much, when I was back in college,” Cox said.

The former Akron hybrid linebacker and safety might be one of the most intriguing players in spring practice for the Cavaliers. With the Zips, Thomas started at linebacker, but also played field safety, while accumulating 105 career tackles, 6 pass breakups, 3 fumble recoveries, an interception and a sack in 40 career games.

Early this spring at Virginia, Thomas has shown the same knack for making plays as one of the first team safeties. The grad transfer has even reminded his new head coach of a former Clemson standout.

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