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2024 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Shawn Thompson, RB, Widener University

Shawn Thompson the quick and elusive running back from Widener University recently sat down with Evan Willsmore of Draft Diamonds.
Shawn Thompson the quick and elusive running back from Widener University recently sat down with Evan Willsmore of Draft Diamonds.
  • Name: Shawn Thompson
  • Position: Running Back
  • Height: 5’11”
  • Weight: 215 lbs
  • School: Widener University
  • Level: Division III – Middle Atlantic Conference
  • Twitter: thompson_shawn7

Talk about your experience as a student. What is your major/minor? Did you participate in any other activities or campus organizations other than football?

My experience at Widener University was excellent because I was able to have wonderful professors that help me to prepare for life during and after football. My major at Widener University was sports management. I participated and helped in the bone marrow drive, and to raise awareness for the cause.

What do your teammates say is your best quality?

My teammates say my best quality is that I keep the atmosphere fun, and motivating, and encourage them to show the best version of themselves. They also say I lead by example by pushing myself to achieve my goals. 

What kind of role do you see yourself in on the team? What scheme and/or position suits your skill set?

I see myself as a versatile running back that can run in between the tackles and go out and catch the ball. I can play in a variety of schemes – for example, the power or spread offense. 

Who is the best player you have ever played against in college?

The best player I have ever played against in college is Tahmir Barksdale because he plays hard and is a playmaker when the ball is in his hands.

Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?

The teammate that impresses me the most is James Gillespie because he was a leader and a hard worker. James Gillespie was able to make a lot of big plays for our team during the game. 

What makes you different from others at your position? 

What makes me different then others in my position is the ability to be versatile in the run-and-pass game, have excellent vision when I am running the football, and be able to protect the Quarterback.

Describe a time in your life when you were able to overcome a struggle.

The biggest struggle that I was able to overcome was when my parents were going through health issues at separate times. During that time I was committed to supporting my parents while staying focused, motivated, and determined to achieve my goals. 

If you didn’t play football, what other sport would you play?

If I didn’t play football the other sport I would play is soccer because it was my second favorite sport growing up and I loved to watch it.

What is something that you are most proud of? What would you say is your biggest achievement?

I am most proud of having perfect attendance for 12 years because I was dedicated to obtaining my education. My biggest achievement is receiving my Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration.

Describe one of the most memorable plays of your collegiate career. 

One of the most memorable plays of my collegiate career was scoring the touchdown to put the game out of reach in 2022, which was the first touchdown of my Widener University football career.

Do you have a favorite athlete or professional team? Is there a player that you model your game after?

My favorite athlete and the player I model my game after is LaDainian Tomlinson. I loved his style of play and the energy he brought to the game.

What gets you “pumped up” before a game?

What gets me pumped up or my adrenaline going is listening to music in order to get myself ready for a game.

What do you do in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies? Any secret talents?

In my spare time, I love to be around my family, play video games, listen to music, and watch sports events.

Why do you play football? Who or what motivates you the most?

I play football because it is my passion and the sport I love to play since I was 6 years old. My nephews motivate me the most to be successful, to be their role models, and to show them that they can accomplish anything they put their minds to. 

What do you want NFL teams to know about you? 

I would love NFL teams to know that I am dedicated, hardworking, and a team player. I am able to adapt to any environment I am put into and can take constructive criticism to improve on my game.

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