Mayock: Thompson, Collins Fits For Eagles


Shaq Thompson. Courtesy of USA Today

Shaq Thompson. Courtesy of USA Today

Mike Mayock took part in a conference call with the media in front of this week’s Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, and was asked about potential fits for the Eagles in the first round (assuming they stay put at No. 20).

Mayock mentioned Washington safety/linebacker Shaq Thompson and LSU cornerback Jalen Collins as two viable options.

“Shaq Thompson – most people have him as a linebacker; I have him as a safety,” said Mayock. “I have him as my number two safety behind Landon Collins from Alabama, either one of which could be available at 20.”

Mayock believes Thompson (6-1, 228) could serve in a Kam Chancellor-like role when a team is in base and then morph into more of a linebacker in pass situations. He saw snaps at both inside linebacker, outside linebacker and safety this past season for Washington. He also played running back for a stretch, racking up 456 yards on 61 carries (7.5 avg.), scoring twice.

While Mayock clearly likes Thompson, he believes the Eagles should go corner if a top prospect – like Collins — is available.

“He’s really intriguing,” said Mayock of the 6-2, 198-pound underclassman. “He fits what Philly does to a T. Billy Davis would love him. He’s a press corner. Not afraid to play man. Jumps up in your face, will tackle. Understands how to play the game. Has some physicality about him. I think he’s going to be a first-round pick and if (Michigan State’s) Trae Waynes is already gone – you’ve got to do your homework on (Washington’s) Marcus Peters off the field — but I think Jalen Collins really fits what they do.”

As for some other possible fits: Mayock likes safety Ibraheim Campbell, who went to Chestnut Hill Academy before attending Northwestern. Campbell is projected to be a middle-round pick. He also believes Eric Kendricks and Denzel Perryman of Miami are two inside linebackers that could potentially be had in the second round.

Below is some tape of Thompson and Collins courtesy of DraftBreakdown.com.