Syd'Quan Thompson Scouting Report

Despite a very good chance of being selected fairly high in the 2009 NFL Draft, California's Syd'Quan Thompson decided to return to school for his senior campaign. The 11th rated high school cornerback when he enrolled with the Golden Bears, Thompson went on to have an outstanding career at Cal. He started all 52 games for the Bears during his four years on the program, garnering 60 tackles, 2 Passes Broken Up (PBU) and one INT during his ground breaking freshman year in 2006. Thompson went on to set career highs in tackles (78) and PBU (10) as a sophomore. Then, he had another solid outing as a junior registering a 70 tackle, 4 INTs season in 2008. His senior year, although not spectacular in numbers (49 tackles, 10 PBU and 1 INT), was perhaps his best as he led a young Bear defense; He was voted All PAC-10 performer in 2008 and 2009. Thompson is an excellent zone coverage DB with better than average ball hawking instincts. Has outstanding, soft hands. Knows where to be. Experienced player, having started all the gamess he played at Cal. Very solid footwork, quickness and technique. Has shown the ability to handle route combos. Loosens hips to turn and run with most WRs. Reliable open field tackler who has shown some pop in run support. Good returner with experience. However, a bit short to play outside. Questionable speed (4.50est). Has shown no burst and lack of closing speed. Lacks the ability to cover fast, slot receivers. Can get beat deep. Gets turned around easily. Best fitted for a zone coverage scheme where he can see the play develop in front of him and be close to the ball. Thompson has a rare combination of skill and experience. He is a good mid-round prospect with good upside because of his ability to return kicks; his size and lack of speed will force him inside.