Local Prospect Profile: Tedric Thompson

Colorado safety Tedric Thompson found the national spotlight as part of the dominant Buffaloes’ secondary and one of the Pac-12’s top defensive units. He spent his senior season disrupting opposing offenses and mounting draft clout, with a monster game against Utah that cemented his status as one of Colorado’s most dangerous playmakers. Against the Utes, Thompson nabbed two interceptions, recorded a sack and tallied four passes defended. More importantly, he sealed a Pac-12 South Championship for the Buffs with his final interception, reading the quarterback and racing to rip the football (and any hope of a comeback) away from Utah. That matchup showcased all of the qualities that make Thompson so special as a football player. It is his ability to turn the tide of games in the most crucial moments that makes him the most valuable.

Thompson had an exceptional final season at Colorado, boasting 63 total tackles, seven interceptions and three tackles for loss. In 2016, he led the FBS in passes defended with 23, a title he shared with fellow Buffs’ defensive back Akhello Witherspoon. Thompson earned second team All Pac-12 honors as a senior, along with Witherspoon and cornerback Chidobe Awuzie. He was a key piece of the stellar defense that brought the Buffs’ to their first Bowl Game in almost ten years. The trio of Colorado defensive backs will represent the Buffs at the NFL Combine this spring.

Thompson is a monster hitter. He has impressive physicality and good size for his position. He possesses great awareness and the ability to read and adjust to offenses. He contributes all over the field, showing up wherever plays are developing. He controls routes and uses his impressive speed and hands to stay with receivers. He provides exceptional coverage and plays physical, disruptive football, excelling at forcing turnovers and batting down passes.

The Good: Thompson has the physicality and athleticism desired in an NFL safety. He has good hands, speed and size, standing at six-feet, 205 lbs. He is a smart athlete who adjusts to plays and can beat wide receivers for jump balls. He is constantly aware of the football. Thompson is a solid tackler and dependable cover guy. He is a durable athlete who played in nearly every game over four years at Colorado. He is an explosive playmaker and has a propensity for forcing turnovers. Thompson’s dominant play style and ability to disrupt offenses make him invaluable in the secondary.

The Bad: Thompson still has some improvements to make to truly be NFL ready. Scouts have questioned his toughness, he has struggled against the run, and shown some hesitation in tackling that can result in missed opportunities. His continued development will be essential to his success at the next level.

Projection: 2-4. Thompson will likely be a Day Two selection. He will probably be drafted after fellow Colorado defensive back Awuzie. The physical safety will be a great value in the third round, and a steal if he is selected later. Thompson has the potential to develop into a starter down the line, as his abilities to dominate and disrupt the passing game greatly outweigh his weaknesses. At Colorado, he transitioned from a raw, physical talent to a defensive superstar, a move he could replicate in the NFL.