[This Darian Thompson Scouting Report, with a Vikings slant, has been provided to Vikings Territory by Draft Season. Be sure to check back for more and also be sure to visit Draft Season to quench your NFL Draft thirst. All previously published scouting reports can be found by clicking here.]
Height – 6’2″
Weight – 210 lbs.
Age – 22
All-Mountain West First Team
2nd Round
Always around the ball and making plays – totaled 14 career interceptions during his time at Boise St.
Great size and length at 6’2”, 210 lbs.
Plays well against both run and pass
Had a huge Senior Bowl week in both practice and game and was easily one of the best on the field
High football IQ
Former receiver which shows when going for the ball
Plenty of experience with 43 games started for the Broncos
Sometimes too aggressive which results in giving up the big play
Needs to be more disciplined in coverage – gives his receivers too much space
Has some small technique issues that will need to be cleaned up
OK, but not great speed, for a safety
Needs to become a better tackler and take better angles
Nate Allen, Raiders
Vikings fit? Yes.
Safety is one of the Vikings greatest needs. Thompson would be a great fit opposite Harrison Smith in the secondary. Both have a nose for the ball and can make big plays. While Smith would be looked at as the “thumper” in that duo, Thompson can certainly lay hits himself. The 6’2”, 215 lb. safety would easily be a day one starter with the Vikings current safety depth and give Minnesota a solid secondary overall.
The tough part for Thompson ending up in Minnesota is the Vikings draft position. Currently projected as an early second round pick, the end of the first round may be a little early for Thompson. While I wouldn’t be overly upset if he were drafted at 23, I think it would make more sense for Rick Spielman to pull off one of his trademark trades and nab an extra pick or two while moving back to select Thompson later.
View Comments
What do you think about Miles Killebrew?
he was great with the twins
I liked him in the 2 games I looked at but can see some of the weaknesses you pointed out. I think he drops to bottom 2nd maybe even top 3rd guy. Zimmer might light up TV with some FBomb music and throbbing forehead vein closeups if the kid doesn't learn to be where he is supposed to be in coverage.
Perfect Zimmer guy. Well rounded play maker. Good size/length and good enough range. Zimmer will fix his technique and tackling. This guy is Antoine Winfield aggressive when tackling, but doesn't always make the play but when he does it makes you say "wow". Once Zimmer fixes the nuances, think of what this guy will be.
This guy will probably go late 1st round right around the time Jeremy Cash goes.
I dont care how many beers he can drink, can he tackle? Not just hit but tackle!