National Signing Day 2012: Predicting Where Shaq Thompson Will Land

Despite verbally committing to Cal, defensive back Shaq Thompson still has Oregon, Washington and UCLA on his mind.

The All-American is being pulled in many different directions.

Cal is the front-runner, as he has twice said that he will be playing for the Golden Bears. His older brother Syd played for the team and is now a member of the Denver Broncos.

On the other hand, his original recruiter at Cal, Tosh Lupoi, left for Washington and it forced Thompson to reevaluate his decision.

Oregon is still in the race thanks to a recent friendship with highly-touted linebacker Arik Armstead. Since meeting at the U.S. Army All-American Bowl, the two have developed quite a relationship and have discussed the possibility of playing together in college. 

Whichever team lands the athlete will get quite the player.

Thompson is often listed as a safety, but he could also play cornerback or even wide receiver at the college level.

He has excellent speed and agility, and as a defensive back could have elite hands for the position. His 6'2" frame will help at any position he plays.

The California native is also happy to be nearing the end of his recruitment. While some players love the attention, Thompson has been complaining about the constant pressure on his Twitter profile.

One of the latest posts says, "I can't wait till this is over = no more calls from the media."

So what team will end up getting the talented player?

A lot of teams have been in the running, but Cal has led throughout the entire process. His connections to the program plus Jeff Tedford doing a last-minute push should keep them over the top.

Besides, it would be a waste of him to recommit to the team a few weeks ago only for him to back out now.