Rookies don’t always get a chance to compete for playing time in the NFL, let alone for a team like the defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs. Nonetheless, fifth-round selection B.J. Thompson is looking to make his mark for the team in any way he can in 2023, including on special teams if necessary.
He told reporters about his ability to play in the game’s third phase at rookie minicamp over the weekend, which he said is a core part of his identity as a football player.
“Special teams has always been a big part for me, especially coming from Baylor,” Thompson explained. “We put a lot of emphasis on it. The other team they might decide to take that play off or whatnot but if you go all out on those plays then you have the chance to get the upper hand. I know coming to the NFL, playing special teams is a big part making a team or whatnot. So, I’m all in on special teams. I can play all four and hopefully that keeps me around for a while.”
When Thompson played at Baylor in 2018, he tallied a blocked field goal, a blocked extra point and a blocked punt. His role on special teams decreased when he transferred to Stephen F. Austin as he took a larger role on defense. If he can manage to find the field consistently on punt and field goal block units, Thompson’s rise to stardom in Kansas City may be accelerated despite his day 3 draft status.
Andy Reid and Dave Toub are known for giving players chances to show their mettle if their performance in practice warrants it, so keep your eye on Thompson during training camp later in the summer to see if he has what it takes to compete in one of football’s most underappreciated phases.
