Former Husky Shaq Thompson sticking to linebacker with Carolina
After playing multiple positions during his three seasons at Washington, Panthers rookie Shaq Thompson has stuck to linebacker, which he says he prefers.
After playing several positions at UW, Shaq Thompson said he likes sticking to linebacker with Carolina. (AP)
(AP)
RENTON – One position has been plenty for Panthers rookie Shaq Thompson during the start to his NFL career.
The former Husky was asked jokingly whether it’s been at all boring to solely play linebacker for Carolina after doing it all during his three seasons at Washington.
“No, I actually like it better,” Thompson told Seattle-area reporters on a conference call Wednesday, four days before his Panthers will play the Seahawks at CenturyLink Field. “I can really focus on just one position and one position only so I can perfect my craft and be the best I can be.”
It wasn’t immediately clear which position Thompson would play when Carolina chose him 25th overall in this year’s draft. He was recruited to Washington as a safety before moving to linebacker and became an all-conference player at that position. He stepped in at running back during his final season and averaged 7.5 yards per carry, then went on to win the Paul Hornung Award as the nation’s most versatile player.
Thompson has stuck to linebacker with the Panthers, playing both the weak and strong side while starting all four of their games. He made it clear coming out of Washington that he would prefer to play linebacker in the NFL. He was asked why on Wednesday.
“Because I love hitting people. I just love the contact of the game,” Thompson said, “and longevity-wise, defensive players last longer than running backs.”
Thompson was recruited to Washington out of Sacramento, Calif. by then-Huskies coach Steve Sarkisian, who was just fired by USC amid multiple reports that detailed a problem with alcohol abuse. Asked about Sarkisian, Thomas said: “Me and him had a great connection when I was there. I just hope he gets better and gets back to coaching. He’s a great person and a great coach. He’s going to get back to himself, I believe so. I (fully support him)and I just want him to get right.”
Related
Mauricio Pochettino bids tearful farewell as he leaves USMNT job
Drayer: Should the Mariners feel comfortable trading a starting pitcher?
AL West Check-In: New Astros manager Ausmus missed out on GM job first
Brock: A lot on the line for Huskies vs Michigan St.
Analyst ‘surprised’ Seahawks didn’t trade for WR at deadline
No. 16 UW Huskies cruise past Cal State Bakersfield 85-51
Comments
0 Comments