Tedric Thompson Colorado NFL Draft Profile Plus 5 Unique Facts
Tedric Thompson, a talented safety from the University of Colorado, made a name for himself during his college career with his exceptional playmaking abilities and football IQ. As he enters the NFL draft, teams are eager to acquire his services to bolster their secondary. Let’s delve into his draft profile and discover five unique facts about this promising prospect.
Draft Profile:
Position: Safety
Height: 6-0
Weight: 204 lbs
College: University of Colorado
Class: Senior
1. Exceptional Ball Skills: One of Thompson’s standout attributes is his ability to make plays on the ball. During his time at Colorado, he accumulated an impressive 13 interceptions and defended 25 passes. His knack for reading the quarterback’s eyes and timing his jumps make him a constant threat in the passing game.
2. Versatility: Thompson is not limited to playing solely as a deep safety. He has shown the ability to line up in the slot and excel in man coverage. This versatility adds value to his draft stock, as he can be utilized in multiple defensive schemes.
3. High Football IQ: Thompson’s intelligence on the field is evident in his ability to diagnose plays quickly and make the correct reads. He displays excellent awareness and anticipation, allowing him to be in the right position to disrupt opposing offenses.
4. Leadership Abilities: As a senior at Colorado, Thompson served as a team captain, showcasing his leadership qualities both on and off the field. His ability to rally his teammates and lead by example make him an attractive prospect for teams looking for a player who can positively impact the locker room.
5. Strong Tackler: Thompson is not just a ball hawk but also a sure tackler. He shows good technique and form, rarely missing tackles. His physicality in the run game and ability to bring down opposing ball carriers add another dimension to his game.
FAQs:
1. Which NFL teams have shown interest in Tedric Thompson?
At this stage, it is challenging to determine specific teams that have shown interest. However, Thompson’s skill set has garnered attention from various teams in need of secondary help.
2. What round is Thompson projected to be drafted in?
Thompson is projected to be selected in the late second or early third round of the NFL draft. However, this could change depending on team needs and the overall evaluation of other safeties.
3. What are some areas of improvement for Thompson?
While Thompson is an exceptional player, some scouts believe he could improve his speed and agility. Additionally, enhancing his technique in man coverage could further elevate his game at the NFL level.
4. How does Thompson compare to other safeties in this draft class?
Thompson is considered one of the top safeties in this year’s draft class. His playmaking abilities, football IQ, and versatility set him apart from many other prospects at his position.
5. Has Thompson faced top-level competition in college?
Yes, Thompson has faced top-level competition during his time at the University of Colorado. He has played against some of the best offenses in the Pac-12 Conference, showcasing his skills against talented quarterbacks and receivers.
6. Can Thompson contribute on special teams?
Yes, Thompson has the potential to be a valuable contributor on special teams. His tackling ability and football IQ make him an asset on coverage units.
7. What is the key to Thompson’s success in the NFL?
The key to Thompson’s success in the NFL will be his ability to adapt to the speed and physicality of the game. If he can continue to display his playmaking ability and improve upon his areas of weakness, he has the potential to become a standout safety at the professional level.
8. Has Thompson suffered any significant injuries during his college career?
No, Thompson has not suffered any significant injuries during his college career. He has displayed durability and maintained a high level of play throughout his collegiate years.
9. How does Thompson fare in zone coverage?
Thompson excels in zone coverage due to his exceptional awareness and ability to read the quarterback’s eyes. His ball skills and quick reactions make him a threat to intercept passes and break up plays in zone schemes.
10. Does Thompson have any experience returning kicks?
While Thompson does not have much experience returning kicks, his athleticism and vision could potentially make him an option for teams looking to utilize him in that role.
11. What sets Thompson apart from other safeties in this draft class?
Thompson’s exceptional ball skills and high football IQ set him apart from other safeties in this draft class. His ability to consistently make plays on the ball and his leadership qualities make him a highly sought-after prospect.
12. How does Thompson fare in run defense?
Thompson’s strong tackling ability and physicality make him an asset in run defense. He displays good instincts and takes proper angles to bring down ball carriers effectively.
13. Has Thompson received any awards or accolades during his college career?
Yes, Thompson was named to the All-Pac-12 First Team in 2016 and received All-Pac-12 Honorable Mention in 2015. These honors showcase his impact on the field and recognition by conference coaches.
14. Can Thompson be a day one starter in the NFL?
While Thompson has the potential to become a day one starter, his immediate impact may depend on the team he joins and their defensive scheme. However, his skill set and football IQ make him capable of contributing early in his NFL career.
15. What are Thompson’s long-term goals in the NFL?
Thompson’s long-term goals in the NFL are to establish himself as one of the premier safeties in the league, earn Pro Bowl selections, and ultimately help lead his team to a Super Bowl victory.
In conclusion, Tedric Thompson’s draft profile showcases his exceptional playmaking abilities, versatility, and high football IQ that make him an attractive prospect for NFL teams. His unique skill set and leadership qualities set him apart from other safeties in this year’s draft class. As he transitions to the professional level, Thompson has the potential to make a significant impact in the secondary and become a key contributor for an NFL team.
