Wide Receiver Perry Thompson is a physically gifted wide receiver who has made an immediate impact since his freshman season at Foley High School in Alabama.

However, during his sophomore season, he took major strides in his development when he recorded 53 receptions for 661 yards, scoring five touchdowns and accumulating 814 all-purpose yards.

He took another step forward in his junior year to become one of the best wide receivers in the nation. He ended the season with 1,059 yards receiving (12.2 YPR), and nine touchdowns.

Size-Strength-Speed

Perry Thompson has excellent size and strength, making him a formidable presence for any defensive back attempting to defend against him, particularly during jump ball situations.

While he needs to become more consistent off the line, he exhibits impressive mobility, possessing quick-twitch reflexes and deceptively good overall speed. In fact, he often outruns his pursuers, winning more footraces than one might expect.

Ball Skills

Here lies his advantage as a mismatch and puts him on the verge of a fifth star. He fearlessly enters congested areas to compete for the ball, displaying exceptional hand-eye coordination. He loves climbing the ladder and will elevate himself to make difficult grabs, demonstrating superior ball-tracking abilities, especially when it comes to high passes.

Furthermore, he effectively utilizes his long reach to position himself between the ball and his opponent, making it challenging for defenders to have any shot of disrupting the play.

Big Play Ability

Thompson possesses a rare combination of size, speed, and strength, which makes him an ideal No. 1 receiver. He exhibits impressive short-area quickness and can accelerate quickly after catching the ball and breaking tackles.

He can power through arm tackles and gain speed when he finds an opening. Moreover, he can evade defenders in space by making sharp cuts or muscling his way through them.

Bottom Line

With impressive length, a solid first step, and adequate-to-good top-end speed considering his size, he only has one major need for improvement -route running.

He is a fearless player who fearlessly traverses the middle and can make acrobatic catches in traffic due to his outstanding body control and concentration. Furthermore, he has demonstrated his ability as a productive return man on special teams.

With a year in the Alabama strength and conditioning program, he should be a consistent force in run blocking.

Thompson’s long frame suggests he will only get better with the added bulk and improved route running, with the potential to contribute early on special teams. He has the potential to be one of the next great Bama receivers.