Scouting Journals for Jalen Thompson

Interior defensive line prospect that has a knack for getting to the quarterback. Productive player for Michigan high school powerhouse Cass Tech. Totalled 30 tackles, 12 tackles for loss and 10 sacks in six games during his junior season. Athletic ability jumps off the tape. Impressive first step off the line of scrimmage. Chases backside to the ball carrier and can get to the sideline comfortably. Body type should add some quality mass at the next level with a collegiate strength and nutrition program. Will need to add mass throughout the frame in order to gain necessary functional strength to kick inside. Stands in at 6-foot-3, 245 pounds with a plus 6-foot-9 wingspan. Ran an electronically-timed 5.03 40 and a 4.47 shuttle. Jumped a 22-inch vertical and a 9-foot broad jump during the spring camp circuit ahead of his senior season. Plays a little high, but easily fixable with coaching. Can continue improving his ankle flexion. Could bring early value as a third down interior rusher and will develop into a more significant role as he gets bigger and stronger. One of the younger prospects along the defensive line in the 2023 recruiting class.