Name: Dominique Thompson
School: Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo (Utah Transfer)
Position: WR
Height: 5-11
Weight: 196
Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
Some goals I set for myself at the beginning of the season was to become a starter on offense, have 100+yrd game, score multiple TDs, become a leader of the team, and be a game changer. Despite the subpar season from myself and my team I have made great strides as a leader and a player. Achieved my 100+yrd game versus Weber State while also adding two touchdowns, became a starter, made crucial plays in multiple games, and was a leader of the team. It could always be a better year but I am grateful for the one I had.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
I would think my coaches and teammates would say I am a savvy route running receiver with strong hands and great ball tracking skills. A type of receiver that can take hits and is not afraid of getting in the box to block for run plays. A student of the game that is able to read defenses and learn multiple positions of the offense.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
When watching film on other receivers, I look at their body mechanics and how they move within a route. How I could take from what they do and add it to my own game. Things such as Davante Adams’ split release, Brandon Ayuik’s change of pace and savvy, and Stefon Diggs’ route running. All these different characteristics can be molded and fitted into my own game how I see fit. When watching defenses on film, I look at tendencies and weaknesses. These are two habits that are hard to break from one week to another so during a whole season it can be very telling on what someone is going to do in a game. How a corner plays cover 3 versus how they play cover 2, how a safety lines up in 2 Tampa versus a cover 4. These are tips that can make the game much slower and easier to play.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
I believe what separates me from other prospect is my savvy route running, ball skills and IQ of the game. Lacking the athleticism most other receivers have over me I make up for it in creating separation during routes, having strong hands, and knowing the playbook in multiple positions.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
In the offseason I plan on training to becoming more athletic. Meaning more explosive, agile, quick twitch, speed, strength, and flexibility. This will help with injury prevention as well as getting my body ready for a quick turnaround when a professional opportunity arises.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
As mentioned before I am a student of the game so being able to learn the playbook quickly is a skill I believe that will be important. Being a natural for those that need some guidance or help in times. Also being very coachable talking tips and criticism at times to help my overall game, nothing in this business is personal unless it is made to be that way. Off the field I am a responsible adult of society, I look to help others in need when I can and would love to give back to a community that is underrepresented.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
I may not be an eye catcher like many other athletes looking to be picked up but I will put my all into helping your team succeed. I take opportunities in front of me and make the absolute most out of it as possible. I am an extremely hard worker and I have that drive to be the greatest player. My drive and love for this game is what got me through the six years of college football, through the injuries, through the surgeries, the early mornings and late nights, the extra work and I don’t intend to step on the brake any time soon.
