Report: Chargers to host UAB CB Starling Thomas on pre-draft visit

The Chargers are interested in a fast and physical cornerback.

Former UAB cornerback Starling Thomas will be traveling to Los Angeles for a top-30 visit with the Chargers, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler.

Thomas allowed only 257 yards and 22 catches on 58 targets last season with nine pass breakups. For his efforts, Thomas earned an invite to the East-West Shrine Bowl in Las Vegas, NV.

Thomas made Bruce Feldman’s “Freaks” list, as he won a state title in Alabama in the 100-meter dash in high school after running a 10.4 and was GPS timed at over 24 MPH while at UAB.

At his pro day this past week, Thomas posted a 37.5-inch vertical jump and ran a 4.30 40.

That speed is evident on the field, as Thomas is a fast and physical defender with fluid hips that allow him to mirror well in press coverage. He was also used as a return specialist in college.

With J.C. Jackson’s status this upcoming season up in the air, the Chargers need to add more depth at cornerback. Thomas would supply the position group with that and be a candidate to return kicks.

Lions 2023 draft: A cornerback for every round

Identifying a cornerback projected from each round for the Detroit Lions in the 2023 NFL draft

The Detroit Lions have nicely fleshed out the cornerback position for 2023 in free agency this offseason. Long-term, however, there is still quite a bit of room for GM Brad Holmes to add more help at CB. Only newcomer Cameron Sutton, holdover starter Jerry Jacobs and little-used slot Chase Lucas are under contractual control beyond 2023.

Here is one cornerback prospect that fits the Lions from each round of the draft. Detroit doesn’t currently have any picks in the fourth or seventh rounds, but players from those ranges are included because trades happen all the time on draft weekend.

This is not meant to be a comprehensive list, just one from each range.