Washington’s versatile Shaq Thompson taken 25th by Carolina
Apr 30, 2015, 7:57 PM | Updated: Apr 8, 2016, 10:50 am
(AP)
It’s still uncertain what position Shaq Thompson will play in the pros, but where he will play is decided: Carolina.
The Huskies star will either be an outside linebacker and safety for the Panthers, who selected him with the 25th overall pick in NFL Draft on Thursday.
The selection marks the first time in history that three Washington players have been picked in the first round. Thompson, who decided to forego his senior year in Montlake, joins former teammates Danny Shelton (12th overall to Cleveland) and Marcus Peters (18th, Kansas City) as first-round selections.
Thompson was one of the most vital members of Washington’s team in 2014, starring at linebacker on a highly efficient defense, filling in as the featured running back in multiple games, and being an important part of the special teams. He also made a handful of appearances at safety.
Thompson earned Associated Press first-team All-American honors last season and won the Paul Hornung Award, given annually to the most versatile player in college football, after racking up four defensive touchdowns, three forced fumbles, and three games with at least 98 yards rushing.