PHX Reporter

Xavier Thomas, an outside linebacker for the Arizona Cardinals, has drawn comparisons to former NFL defensive lineman Darnell Dockett. While their positions differ—Thomas plays outside linebacker and Dockett was a three-technique defensive lineman—their shared drive to disrupt quarterbacks and prove themselves in the NFL links them.

Dockett entered the league in 2004 with a vocal presence, whereas Thomas maintains a more reserved demeanor. Both players were drafted later than expected due to questions surrounding their college careers: Dockett in the third round and Thomas in the fifth.

Dockett enjoyed a successful career with the Cardinals, recording 40.5 sacks, 90 tackles for loss, and earning three Pro Bowl selections. Thomas aims to achieve similar success but acknowledges he has a long way to go.

Confidence is another common trait between the two players. "I never had a doubt in my mind that I was going to make the team, knowing my capabilities and what I intended to do," Thomas said.

After a challenging start absorbing the new playbook during the offseason, both Thomas and head coach Jonathan Gannon noted his improvement during training camp and preseason. The Cardinals are looking for someone to step up as an edge rusher, and Thomas is ready for that role despite his bumpy path to the NFL.

"That spotlight on me, it's nothing new," Thomas stated. "Regardless if they have expectations on you or they don't have expectations on you, you've got to go out there and do what you have to do."