Thurmond has adequate size with excellent athleticism and deceptive strength for the position. He had been the Ducks most active coverage defender over his career before a season-ending injury (after four games) in 2009. Thurmond is a tough, competitive cornerback that has the speed, quickness and agility to be effective in man schemes as well as combination zone coverage’s. He can transition well out of his peddle and can flip his hips quickly to run with speed receivers. Thurmond is an aggressive perimeter defender that can re-route receivers off the line of scrimmage as well as leverage the ball effectively as a run defender. Thurmond is an instinctive player with good ball skills and brings an added dimension to his game as a return specialist. He should be a highly valued cornerback in this year's draft if his knee is completely healthy.

Thurmond is the kind of prospect coaches really like because of his outstanding work ethic and competitiveness. Additionally, he’s a player with good size, strength and athleticism for the cornerback position. Also possesses good ball skills needed to make the tough interception. Was a highly productive player for the Ducks throughout his career and brings more value to the table as a return specialist.

Despite a quality frame, Thurmond lacks a little bulk and needs to improve his hand use to ward off blockers when coming up in run support. Durability is another possible area of concern as he’s coming off season-ending knee injury.