Small school wide receivers are going to be a trend in the 2019 NFL Draft class. A case could be made that four of the top 10 at the position are not from Power 5 schools. Perhaps the most NFL-ready of those four prospects is fifth-year senior Cody Thompson from Toledo.
Thompson had a quiet start to his career but broke out as a sophomore, finishing with 825 yards on just 37 receptions. The 22.3 yards per catch finished third in then nation. In 2016, Thompson set the school record with 1,269 yards on just 64 receptions, finishing just under 20 yards per catch. At this time last year, Thompson was primed to take over that Cooper Kupp type role in the draft class, an oversized slot receiver who catches everything and has the capability to get behind a secondary. However just five weeks into his senior year, Thompson broke his leg and missed the rest of the season. He received a medical hardship and is getting a re-do at his senior year in 2018.
Thompson already runs NFL-caliber routes. His balance and body control in and out of his breaks helps him get the much needed separation underneath despite not having top tier quickness and speed. Once the ball is near him, Thompson always has the advantage position-wise. He uses his strong and sturdy frame to block defensive backs from wrapping around in pursuit of a pass deflection. He is very space aware and heady. Thompson also sells his double routes like a veteran. He is head and shoulders above his opponents mentally. He tracks the deep ball well and will fight through tacklers after the catch. Thompson is a sure-bet to have success in the NFL. Even though his timed speed may not jump off the screen, he plays more than fast enough.