Brandon Thompson
6'2, 310 pounds | Defensive Tackle | Clemson
First word: Clemson has been putting a lot of defensive lineman on the NFL Draft map including recent draftee's Da'Quan Bowers and Jarvis Jenkins. This season they have Andre Branch and Brandon Thompson gaining a lot of attention. Thompson maybe the sleeper among the two with some good upside and potential.
Brandon Thompson 2012 NFL Draft prospect notes
Thompson has the necessary size and bulk to play the defensive tackle position in the NFL. He combines that size with a good first step that allows him to explode into the offensive line. His ability to create a good initial jolt helps him get inside hand position and drive the offensive lineman into the backfield. Thompson does a great job of disrupting the offense by getting a great push off the line. He possesses a good motor which always makes him a threat to make a play.
The biggest concerns about Thompson is his ability to make plays away from his frame. He does a good job of working his way to the ball and being disruptive but doesn’t make enough tackles. In order for Thompson to be considered a good 3 technique prospect he needs to show the ability to penetrate the gaps.
Overall, Thompson has some good upside and a solid season could have him in the discussion for a day 2 selection. Thompson could help his draft stock by making more plays on the ball and creating a bit of a media buzz.
Bold statement: Thompson will have a Nick Fairley type of breakout season and be considered a late 1st round selection
Games viewed: Florida State ('10), Maryland ('10), South Florida ('10), Boston College ('10)
Brandon Thompson
6’2, 310 pounds | Defensive Tackle | Clemson
Notes:
- Thompson has nice size and bulk with good weight distribution
- He fires off the ball keeping his pad level low and maintaining leverage
- His ability to quickly get his hands inside the lineman allows him to create a push on the pocket
- Thompson delivers a nice initial jolt helping him drive back the lineman
- He applies pressure because of his leverage and strengthThompson prefers to lock on and drive rather than shoot the gap
- However, his quick first step means that he is capable to penetrating through a gap
- He needs to improve his ability to disengage and make plays away from his frame
- Thompson doesn’t have elite quickness which will limit his sack potential
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