Dallas Cowboys Mock Draft: Is Brandon Thompson of Clemson an Option?
March 9, 2012
Today's scouting report is up at the Times, and it is on Clemson defensive tackle Brandon Thompson. Click the link to view the whole report. Here is a snippet:
At 6-2, some might be scared about Brandon Thompson’s height inside. As a defensive tackle or potential nose tackle, he will need to be able to hold off blockers before shedding them. Thompson shows an uncanny ability to do just this, aided in large part by his 33.5-inch arms. With long arms, Thompson’s height is less important.
You can see an example of Thompson shedding blocks and showcasing his athleticism at the 2:21 mark against Georgia Tech. Thompson uses outstanding leverage at the point of attack to hold his ground, sheds the blocker and makes the tackle. You can see the exact same thing on each of the next three plays.
To say that I like Thompson is an understatement. I think he's the top tackle in this class, ahead of both Devon Still and Michael Brockers. I don't think he's going to make his way into the first round, but I would be ecstatic if the 'Boys managed to land him in the second. To give you a sense of how much I think of Thompson, consider the fact that I think the team would be acquiring great value if they select him in the first round!
Previous Scouting Reports
Stephon Gilmore, CB, South Carolina
Devon Still, DT/DE, Penn State
Courtney Upshaw, DE/OLB, Alabama
Melvin Ingram, DE/OLB, South Carolina
Janoris Jenkins, CB, Florida/North Alabama
Whitney Mercilus, DE/OLB, Illinois