Raiders UDFA Player Profile: DB Chance Casey-Thomas

Recently the Raiders made a few signings following tryouts in their rookie minicamp. One of the players to be signed was former Baylor defensive back Chance Casey-Thomas.

Casey-Thomas's career at Baylor began well as he started six games his freshman season, earning a place on the All-Big 12 freshman team. While his performance on the field continued to be strong throughout his career he struggled to stay on the field with injury issues.

The 5-11, 190 pound defensive back is very athletic and was a state prep hurdles champion. Considering that state is Texas, it makes it all the more an accomplishment. He went on to earn All-Big 12 honors in hurdles for Baylor's track team as a sophomore. Despite his track background, he doesn't possess blazing speed (4.5 40-yard dash).

Finished his career at Baylor totaling 212 tackles (161 solo), 6 for loss, 3 interceptions, and 18 passes defended. His best season came as a senior when he had 80 combined tackles (61 solo).

He played primarily at safety for the Bears but also played some cornerback. He strengths are his tackling and his quick feet. His weakness is biting on double moves. With the Raiders need at safety, that's where he fits in.

Expected to be a priority free agent going into the draft, Casey-Thomas offers plenty in the way of physical tools. He is versatile and has plenty of upside. As is usually the case, he will have to show up on special teams to make the squad. He returned punts at Baylor so that helps his chances.

Before a knee ligament injury his junior season, scouts had taken notice of him. He missed five games as a junior and fell off the radar. His best tackling numbers came as a senior but the fact that he hasn't had an interception for two seasons may have loomed large in the lack of interest in him as a priority free agent. There is a lot of potential there and winning a spot on the team in a tryout shows it.