Shamarko Thomas

With Will Allen testing free agency, Thomas will once again be given an opportunity to earn the starting strong safety position. Thomas failed to do so after the retirement of Troy Polamalu, but only has 2016 second-round draft pick Sean Davis as competition entering training camp. Even if Thomas wins the job, he has not demonstrated he can produce at the level necessary to warrant fantasy consideration.

The retirement of Troy Polamalu puts Thomas, who played just two defensive snaps last season, in position to see a significant boost in playing time. During his rookie season of 2013, Thomas struggled in pass coverage, leading the team to select three defensive backs in this year’s draft. Should Thomas emerge as the Steelers’ starting strong safety, he could garner IDP consideration, but it remains to be seen whether he’s suited for such a prominent role.

Drafted as insurance for the oft-injured Troy Polamalu, Thomas suffered an injury of his own last season. Still, he showed his potential, and is in line for increased playing time in 2014.

Thomas lacks height, but he plays hard and is very athletic, possessing both straight-line speed and sufficient lateral movement. He likely won't play much as a rookie as long as Ryan Clark and Troy Polamalu are healthy, but the latter player is often hurt. There's IDP upside here in dynasty formats.