Often Knocked Down But Never Out, Starling Thomas V Continues To Fight

If perseverance was a person, it’d be Thomas. In 2019, his second year at UAB, Thomas tore his ACL. Yet he didn’t miss the season, not even missing a game. He put a brace on his knee and played in eight consecutive games with the injury.

“I’m a fighter, bro,” Thomas said. “When they told me that it was torn, I told them that I worked too hard for it to be taken away that easy. Whatever I got to do, I’m going to go out there and do it.”

Thomas had a solid support group in college, a family-like atmosphere helping propel him through the hard times. His whirlwind rookie beginnings, with an offseason with the Lions before being claimed by the Cards, meant the Alabama native had to mesh on the fly.

Cardinals safety Budda Baker, a captain who saw a need, invited Thomas over to his house to celebrate Thanksgiving.

“I know a lot of the rookies don’t have their families, so for me, it was just a matter of inviting those guys over if they needed a house to stay at and just be with my family, eat good food, and have good family time on Thanksgiving,” Baker said. “I love that guy. He’s a very hard worker, controls what he can control, and plays football at a high level.”

The duo have spent chunks of the offseason working out together. Baker said their on-field communication skills have increased. Their competitive nature has also shined throughout offseason work.

“In the weight room or even outside the weight room when we’re doing field sprints, we talk a little smack to each other,” Baker said. “You’re going to be faster? No, I’m going to be faster. We’re just having a good time competing and that’s what you want to do with your brothers.”

Thomas was a sprinter in high school and his quickness on the field allows him to close out on receivers that are downfield. It’ll be a critical aspect of his game as he competes for snaps.

But there’s a meaningful reason that gives him a boost, both on and off the field.

“My mom is the one that helps me run fast,” Thomas said. “Her wings are on my cleats.”