Stepping into a starting lineup as a 21-year-old rookie is no easy task.

But for CB Azareye'h Thomas , who did just that in Week 8 against Cincinnati, it was just another important step as he navigates his first year in the NFL.

"It's been everything that I've expected, and more," Thomas said of his rookie season. "… There's been some growing pains. But we all know growth -- sometimes you've got to go through a little pain, a little struggle. But overall, it's been a blessing."

Prior to the game against the Bengals, the Jets' third-round draft selection had only played 42 defensive snaps this season. But after CB Sauce Gardner sustained a concussion in Week 7 against Carolina, Thomas' name was called -- and he started and played all 59 defensive snaps in the Week 8 win.

It was a mo

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