Getting to know the Steelers 2025 UDFAs: DJ Thomas-Jones

After the Pittsburgh Steelers selected seven players in the 2025 NFL draft, they continued adding to the roster by coming to terms with seven undrafted free agents. With many draft profiles focusing on those players towards the top and middle of the NFL draft, it is time to get to take a look at these other members of the Pittsburgh Steelers who will have just as much opportunity to make the roster in 2025 as those who were selected in the draft, despite the more difficult path.

Remember, some draft profiles for these players are quite harsh as they are looking at them as a draftable prospect. Taking a flyer on an UDFA is a completely different story as many times the potential the player shows is what lands them on an NFL offseason roster.

Next up is fullback DJ Thomas-Jones from South Alabama.

DJ Thomas-Jones

Fullback
Senior
South Alabama
6’2″; 256 lbs.

Playing five seasons in college where he was listed as a tight end, Thomas-Jones played his first two years at Ole Miss where he appeared in 11 games with one reception for 6 yards. In his three years at South Alabama, Thomas-Jones appeared in 38 games with 73 receptions for 653 yards and 11 touchdowns. His best season was in 2023 where he had 27 receptions for 235 yards and five touchdowns. In his final season of 2024, Thomas-Jones had 22 receptions for 191 yards and three touchdowns.

Current Steelers at the position:

Fullback

• Connor Heyward*
• DJ Thomas-Jones

*Listed as TE/FB

Draft Profile

Here is a breakdown from bvmsports.com:

D.J. Thomas-Jones, a fifth-year senior fullback from South Alabama, is a prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft, now signed by the Pittsburgh Steelers as an undrafted free agent. Standing at 6’1″ and weighing 250 pounds, he boasts impressive blocking skills, effective in the run game, and shows promise as a receiver. Despite some limitations in athleticism, Thomas-Jones has demonstrated impactful play as a lead blocker and has experience in pass protection. However, he needs to refine certain aspects of his game, such as playing from a three-point stance.

By the Numbers

• D.J. Thomas-Jones recorded 74 receptions for 659 yards and 11 touchdowns over his career.
• He participated in 681 offensive snaps during the 2024 season, with 510 of those played in-line.

State of Play

• Thomas-Jones is seen as an intriguing option for the Steelers to fill a fullback void.
• His blocking ability and versatility will be pivotal as he integrates into the team’s offensive schemes.

What’s Next

As he acclimates to the professional level, Thomas-Jones will need to enhance his technical skills, particularly in execution from a three-point stance. His impact on special teams will also be crucial for his roster chances.

Bottom Line

D.J. Thomas-Jones has the potential to become a valuable asset for the Steelers, particularly due to his blocking prowess. However, his path to success will depend on his adaptability to the fullback role and special teams contributions.

Film

To finish things off, let’s take a look at the film…

Full game highlights of South Alabama vs. Northwestern St. (87-10 win, 3 catches, 34 yards, 2 TDs)