With the early signing period for high school football players beginning on December 18, Badgers Insider takes a closer look at the recruits that signed with the Wisconsin football program.
In this edition, we examine Roger Bacon (OH) High School defensive end, James Thompson Jr..
Note: All notes and stats provided by uwbadgers.com
Thompson chose Wisconsin over other offers from: Akron, Ball State, Chattanooga, Citadel, Coastal Carolina, Eastern Kentucky, Iowa State, and Navy
Thompson’s High School Accolades: Three–star recruit by 247 Sports, ESPN and Rivals…Third–team All–Ohio as a senior in 2019…Played on offensive and defensive lines
Thompson’s Impact as a Badger: Thompson is a consensus three star prospect by both Rivals and 247 Sports but he’ll likely need time to continue to develop as a prospect before he sees regular playing time for Wisconsin.
Thompson fits what Wisconsin looks for out of their defensive ends as he’s listed at 6’4″ and 251 pounds as the Badgers typically recruit taller players at that position.
Thompson is going to need to continue to gain strength and add muscle before he’s able to see the field. The key with Thompson is being able to gain the necessary strength while maintaining his speed and athleticism.
Thompson has shown that he’s capable of creating pressure in the backfield but like any incoming freshman along the defensive line, he’ll need to continue to work on his pass rushing moves and his hand placement to allow himself the chance of winning at the point of attack.
The key to Thompson getting on the field for Wisconsin is showing that he’s able to do both consistently. In particular, being able to win at the point of attack allowing for Wisconsin’s linebackers to make plays. All of this will come with plenty of practice and repetition.
Thompson will likely redshirt this coming fall to allow himself to gain the necessary weight and become comfortable in Wisconsin’s defense. The upside is there for Thompson and if he can stay healthy as he missed most of his junior season because of a leg injury could mean good things for Wisconson’s defensive line. But it will be up to defensive line coach Inoke Breckterfield to put the physical tools that Thompson has displayed together.
As Badger fans may not hear a lot from Thompson over the next two years but if Wisconsin can develop Thompson properly his development could pay dividends for Wisconsin’s defense.