When the Miami Dolphins selected Kansas State’s Skylar Thompson in the seventh round of the 2022 NFL draft, there were a number of fans and pundits that were confused by the pick.
Thompson was 24 when he was drafted and turned 25 over the summer, so he’s much older than your average rookie. On top of that, in his collegiate career, his numbers never jumped off the page, as he totaled 7,124 yards, 42 touchdowns and 16 interceptions in his five seasons.
However, Thompson’s first two preseason performances have shown Miami’s coaching staff and front office a little something. Of all quarterbacks that have only played in two games, he’s third in completion percentage (76.3%), fourth in passing yards (347) and tied for second in passing touchdowns (two).
Dolphins quarterback coach Darrell Bevell spoke with the media this week about the rookie, and he had some praise to heap on him.
“He looks like he belongs out there. He looks like if he got a call, he would be ready to go,” Bevell said (transcribed by the Miami Herald). “I wouldn’t say [I’m] surprised, but I’m very encouraged and pleased how far he has come in the mental part of it. The skill set we saw on tape is what we really liked. The makeup of the guy and the work ethic he has, has enabled him to do what he’s doing. The skill set is there.
“He studies his stuff. He’s on top of it. The best technique thing we talked about are feet. That’s what sets the timing for our offense. He has bought into that and is doing a great job of throwing on rhythm. His feet speak to him and tell when the ball is supposed to be out and where it’s supposed to go. He’s really buying into the details.”
While there are some clamoring for Thompson to be the backup in 2022, he was really fighting for a roster spot. If he did poorly, it was likely that he’d be on the practice squad, but his performance has probably earned him a roster spot.
If he continues on this current trajectory, he could be the backup in 2023, as Teddy Bridgewater’s contract was only for one year.
No matter where ends up, it’s clear that Thompson has impressed throughout training camp and the preseason.
