2017 NFL Draft Profile: Colorado defensive back Tedric Thompson

Career Highlights

A huge reason for Colorado’s success on defense this season was strong play in the secondary. One of the most underrated prospects going into the NFL Combine is Tedric Thompson. The 2016 second-team All-Pac-12 selection finished the season with seven interceptions and 16 pass breakups, tying teammate Ahkello Witherspoon (23) for the most in the nation. He finished his career at CU with 13 total interceptions, ranking fifth all-time in school history along with 246 total tackles. Thompson is looking to follow in his brother Cedric’s footsteps into the NFL, who was drafted in 2015 by the Miami Dolphins.

Strengths

Thompson is a great all-around athlete with the skills to challenge any receiver. He has progressed over the past four years from being a raw talented safety to developing good ball skills as a defender. He has the ability to read quarterbacks and execute on routes by staying in front of the receiver with his speed. His size at 6’1” and 205 pounds is deceiving because he’s able get up and defend passes like a seasoned cornerback. Thompson’s best quality might be he’s talents as a coverage safety, picked up from playing on the other side of the ball as a wide receiver in high school. He has a track record of production at CU and that will show well on game film to teams.

Weaknesses

Too much speed and not enough power could be a factor at the next level. Thompson could develop into a great starting strong safety in the NFL with some work on technique as a hard hitter. His playmaker first mentality could be used against him in coverage due to over-playing the ball. He’s a physical run stopper at the line, but struggles with being consistent in tackling downhill.

Summary

A smart, athletic safety who could play multiple positions in the secondary if the opportunity was presented.

NFL Comparison: Morgan Burnett

Watchlist teams: Jacksonville Jaguars, Washington Redskins

Draft Projection: 5th round