A.J. Thomas Bio
A. J. Thomas (born September 18, 1999) is an American professional football safety who currently plays for the St. Louis Battlehawks of the United Football League (UFL). Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, Thomas attended the University of Detroit Jesuit High School and Academy before playing college football at Western Michigan University from 2017 to 2021. After going undrafted in the 2022 NFL Draft, he signed with the Chicago Bears and has since built a successful career in the UFL, becoming one of the league’s most decorated safeties.
Early Life and Background
A. J. Thomas was born on September 18, 1999, in Detroit, Michigan. He grew up in the Detroit area and attended the University of Detroit Jesuit High School and Academy, a prestigious preparatory school known for producing accomplished athletes. His upbringing in Detroit provided him with a strong foundation in football culture, given the city’s deep roots in the sport.
During his high school years, Thomas developed into a standout defensive player, showcasing the instincts and physical tools that would later define his professional career. His performance at University of Detroit Jesuit High School and Academy positioned him for the next level, leading to his recruitment by Western Michigan University.
Path to Professional Football
Thomas accepted a scholarship to play at Western Michigan University, where he competed from 2017 to 2021. At Western Michigan, he refined his skills as a safety, learning the complexities of defensive schemes at the collegiate level. His development during these years prepared him for the transition to professional football.
Despite his collegiate experience, Thomas was not selected in the 2022 NFL Draft. However, his talent was evident enough that he received an opportunity at the professional level, signing as an undrafted free agent with the Chicago Bears in 2022.
A.J. Thomas Career
Chicago Bears (2022–2023)
After going unselected in the 2022 NFL Draft, Thomas was signed by the Chicago Bears as an undrafted free agent. He was released on August 30 during the final roster cuts but was signed to the practice squad the following day. Thomas continued to work hard, and his persistence paid off when he was elevated to the active roster on November 29.
He made his NFL debut on December 4 against the Green Bay Packers, recording one tackle while appearing on 13 snaps. On August 30, 2023, Thomas was waived by the Bears and re-signed to the practice squad. He was released on October 29, 2023, concluding his time with the organization.
Birmingham Stallions Breakthrough (2024)
On February 14, 2024, Thomas signed with the Birmingham Stallions of the United Football League. This move proved to be a turning point in his career. He made an immediate impact with the Stallions, demonstrating the playmaking ability that had characterized his game since college.
His standout performances earned him recognition across the league. On June 5, 2024, Thomas was named to the All-UFL Team, solidifying his status as one of the league’s top safeties. He led the UFL in interceptions during the 2024 season, showcasing his ability to read quarterbacks and make crucial plays in the secondary.
The pinnacle of his 2024 season came when the Birmingham Stallions captured the UFL championship. Thomas played a vital role in the team’s title run, and his defensive contributions were instrumental in their success. Following the championship, his contract was terminated on August 1, 2024.
New England Patriots (2024)
On August 2, 2024, Thomas signed with the New England Patriots, providing him with another opportunity in the NFL. He was waived on August 27 and re-signed to the practice squad. However, his tenure with the Patriots was short-lived, as he was released on September 16, 2024.
Birmingham Stallions Return (2025)
On January 14, 2025, Thomas re-signed with the Birmingham Stallions of the United Football League, returning to the team with whom he had found success. He was placed on injured reserve on June 4, 2025, cutting short his 2025 season. Despite the injury setback, his connection with the Stallions remained significant, as he had achieved his greatest professional accomplishments with the organization.
St. Louis Battlehawks (2026–Present)
On January 13, 2026, Thomas was selected by the St. Louis Battlehawks in the 2026 UFL Draft, marking a new chapter in his career. He played eight games with the Battlehawks, recording 30 tackles, an interception, and a broken-up pass. By the end of the 2026 season, Thomas had become the UFL’s career leader for interceptions, further cementing his legacy in the league.
Playing Style and Strengths
Thomas is recognized as a physical and instinctive safety who excels in coverage. His ability to read plays and anticipate opposing receivers has made him a playmaker throughout his career. Standing at 6 feet 2 inches and weighing 216 pounds, he possesses the size and speed to match up against various offensive weapons. His instincts in the secondary have consistently translated into interceptions and key defensive stops.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
Thomas’s career highlights include winning the UFL championship with the Birmingham Stallions in 2024, earning All-UFL Team honors in the same year, and leading the UFL in interceptions during the 2024 season. He has established himself as the UFL’s career leader for interceptions. His journey from undrafted free agent to league champion exemplifies his resilience and dedication to the sport.
A.J. Thomas Career Statistics
Thomas has built an impressive statistical record across his professional career, with his most significant contributions coming in the UFL. His ability to create turnovers has been a defining aspect of his game at every level.
UFL Career Highlights
In his UFL career, Thomas has established himself as one of the premier safeties in the league. His 2024 season with the Birmingham Stallions was particularly remarkable, as he led the league in interceptions and earned All-UFL Team honors while helping his team capture the championship. His production continued with the St. Louis Battlehawks in 2026, where he recorded 30 tackles, an interception, and a broken-up pass in just eight games.
Other Professional Statistics
During his time with the Chicago Bears, Thomas appeared in NFL games, recording four total tackles. His brief NFL experience provided valuable experience that he carried into his UFL career, where he has excelled.
| League | Games | Tackles | Interceptions | Passes Deflected |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NFL | Multiple | 4 | 0 | 0 |
| UFL (2024–2026) | Multiple | 30+ | 2+ | 1+ |
A.J. Thomas Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Specific details about Thomas’s family background, including his parents and any family connections to athletics, are not widely available in public sources. He has maintained a relatively private personal life away from the football field.
Personal Life
Thomas’s personal life remains largely private. As of available information, he is not married and does not have children. He continues to focus on his professional football career while maintaining connections to his hometown of Detroit, Michigan.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season represented both promise and challenge for Thomas. After returning to the Birmingham Stallions on January 14, 2025, he looked to build on his exceptional 2024 campaign. His familiarity with the Stallions’ defensive system and coaching staff positioned him well for continued success.
However, the season took an unexpected turn when Thomas was placed on injured reserve on June 4, 2025. The injury forced him to miss significant playing time and prevented him from showcasing his full abilities. Despite this setback, his track record in the UFL remained strong, and his contributions in limited appearances continued to demonstrate his value as a defensive player.
The injury aside, Thomas’s 2025 season reinforced his status as one of the UFL’s elite safeties. His leadership in the secondary and his playmaking ability remained assets for the Stallions. As he continues his career, Thomas aims to return to full health and pursue additional championships in the league.