Washington Redskins Draft Profiles: Shaq Thompson, OLB

Shaq Thompson

Outside Linebacker

Height: 6' 0", Weight: 228 lbs

Washington

Strengths: Shaq has experience playing both inside and outside linebacker for Washington. He even played safety against Stanford. He has great agility and can change directions on a dime. Shaq moves laterally with ease. He tackles well and wraps up nicely. Thompson has great instincts and vision. During 2014, Shaq had four defensive touchdowns and 3 forced fumbles. As a bonus, Shaq can be used as an emergency #3 running back. He also has experience on special teams.

Weaknesses: Shaq could stand to eat. Scouts have mentioned that he should add some mass to his frame. Due to his size, that might result in Thompson losing some of his quickness. His size also means that he has to take risky angles in order to avoid getting lost at the line of scrimmage. He is easily redirected as a blitzer. He can be knocked out of gaps by pulling guards. He is explosive but does not always take advantage of it.

Bottom Line: Shaq Thompson has got the talent to play in the NFL. His biggest issue is his size. He has the football IQ to change positions if asked, without much of a problem. The biggest problem a team would have would be whenther to draft his as a safety or a 4-3 outside linebacker.

Projected Round: 2

Team He Fits Best On: Saints, Cardinals, Bears, Vikings