It’s only one game and it’s only his third career start but Deionte Thompson is already looking like one of the best safeties in the country. Last night against the Louisville Cardinals, Thompson put on a show, displaying great range and ball skills. Thompson separated defenders from the ball all night and played at speed others will have match week in and week out. Its clear, that after having to wait three years for a significant role, Thompson is more than ready to take the next step.
His height and long arms make it easy for him to grab interceptions. Against Louisville, he came off of the hash to make a beautiful pick in the back of the end zone. Thompson baited the quarterback into thinking the receiver was open and rotated over to make the play. That’s a sign of player growth and development. Thompson was always a great athlete but his football intelligence showed on this play as well. Thompson also played good in run support, finishing with 5 total tackles.
deionte thompson is going to have a very big year for the tide. #RollTide pic.twitter.com/wuewoBAUK4
— JaiHawkFLY (@JaiHawkFly) September 2, 2018
We know about Mark Barron, Landon Collins, Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, Ronnie Harrison and Minkah Fitzpatrick but if Thompson continues his play, he could end up in the same position as those who came before him. After his performance last night scouts will begin to take notice and for good reason. Safeties who are strong in coverage and willing tacklers are very valuable to NFL teams. Deionte Thompson’s value has certainly risen overnight, imagine what a whole season of fine play will do.
