2018 Georgia Football NFL Draft Prospect: DT Trenton Thompson

How good has his offseason been?

It initially looked like Thompson was going to return for his senior year in Athens. Back at the national championship game, he suggested that would be his decision when he spoke to reporters. As the deadline to declare came closer, however, Thompson changed his mind.

His declaration confused many. After such a disappointing junior year, why would he declare early? Thompson clearly has the raw talent to be a high draft pick, but his health is a red flag for teams. Very few juniors end up getting picked early when they have struggled in that 3rd season.

Thompson was invited to the NFL Combine and he flashed his explosiveness. He ran and jumped really well and while he looked a bit stiff in the hips, he proved that he has the raw ability to be an impact player in the NFL. The question just remains, will he ever reach that potential at the next level.While he had a good combine, Thompson, unfortunately, struggled at the UGA pro day where he once again battled an injury.

While many think that his struggles mean that he should have stayed for one more year to try and prove himself, I understand his decision to leave. Another season with injury problems could really derail a potential pro career for Thompson. He had a difficult decision to make and despite all his struggles, he still has too much talent to no be drafted.