​LSU football safety Jhase Thomas is emerging as a difference-maker in fall camp. With LSU facing depth issues at safety, Thomas has stepped up and is now fighting for real playing time. Thomas jumped out to LSU beat reporters early on in camp, when he got a few reps alongside first-teamers. Since then, Thomas has earned praise from head coach Lane Kiffin, defensive coordinator Blake Baker, and his LSU teammates. “Jhase Thomas has been one of the biggest surprises to me in camp. He’s played outstanding,” Baker said. Thomas signed with LSU as a four-star recruit in 2025, but didn’t play much as a true freshman. Thomas played a single defensive snap, and it was in LSU’s blowout of Southeastern Louisiana. Thomas could be poised for more action this year, despite LSU’s starting safeties having plenty of experience. Ty Benefield is locked into a starting role, but Thomas could split time with guys like TaMarcus Cooley and DaShawn Spears. Benefield had positive things to say about the young guys in the safety room, saying Thomas and others don’t take long to correct mistakes. On Aug. 5, Kiffin said Thomas “really has done a good job” and mentioned Thomas’ ability to play multiple positions, something Baker values on the back end of his defenses. It’s good to see Thomas knocking on the door as a rising sophomore. Often, when a blue-chip recruit is fighting for playing time early in his career, it usually means the recruiting ratings got it right. Keep an eye on Thomas as the 2026 season grows closer for LSU. This article originally appeared on LSU Wire: LSU football seeing talented four-star safety emerge at fall camp