Earl Thomas: 'I've tried to raise the standard'

Seattle Seahawks safety Earl Thomas has revealed that he has tried to raise the standard of his position in his four years in the NFL.

The Seahawks selected the 25-year-old 14th overall in the 2010 Draft, and he has become the best player at the safety position in the league in that timespan, having been named as an All-Pro for the past three years.

Thomas also secured the most lucrative contract signed by a safety when he extended his deal with Pete Carroll's side during the off-season.

He wrote on his website: "Anyone who is trying to change the face of anything has to set a new standard.

"That was my goal from day one in the NFL. I wanted to change people's perceptions of the safety position. Safety has been an unappreciated position in the league for a long time.

"It's proven to be an invaluable position, especially for our defense in Seattle."

Thomas has recorded 345 tackles, five forced fumbles and 15 interceptions in his four-year NFL career.