Swapping picks with the Miami Dolphins while simutaneously moving up ten spots, with their newly acquired 5th round selection, the Tennessee Titans acquired versatile SMU jack-of-seemingly-all-trades Taylor Thompson.
Listed currently as a TE, Thompson spent his career at SMU playing the DE position and previously, played WR in high school. An extremely productive pro day elevated him from a possible undrafted free agent candidate to a 5th round draft selection.
As a defensive end in college, Thompson racked up seven sacks and six forced fumbles as a senior.
Regardless of his position, by drafting Thompson, the Titans have themselves a pretty impressive athlete, especially given his 6’6″, 259 lb. size. His athletic credentials consist of a 4.56 forty-yard dash time, 37-inch vertical and for the proverbial icing on the cake, 22 strength reps.
As for his pro potential, at the very least, Thompson is a guy who can contribute on special teams. At the TE position, maybe his uncanny natural abilities can lead to a possible role as Jared Cook’s backup down the road. Given his solid production on the D-line, perhaps there’s a chance he contribute at DE at some point.
At first glance, Thompson has workout-warrior written all over him but considering that’s what teams are typically left with at this point in the draft, I can’t be disappointed at all with this selection. It’s exactly the type of gamble that’s justified in the 5th round.
Any thoughts on the Titans’ new TE/DE? Feel free to contribute your thoughts below.
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