Clemson defensive tackle Brandon Thompson is a beastly run defender and has enough range in his game to attract a variety of teams in the 2012 NFL Draft.

The senior racked up 46 total stops and 2.5 sacks in 2011. 

Strong against the run

Strengths

• Stout build (6-foot-2, 314 pounds)
• Rather athletic for a big man (31-inch vertical)
• Impressive strength (35 reps at 225 pounds) and anchor ability
• Excellent run defender
• Disruptive hands
• Respectable tackler - more of the drag-down mold
• Experienced, three-year starter
• Potential to play five-technique
• Understands gap responsibilities
• Tremendous first step and initial burst

Weaknesses

• Questionable technique
• Too often eliminated by double-teams
• Very limited as a pass rusher - one-dimensional player
• Struggles to disengage consistently
• Needs to improve his stamina
• Isn't laterally fluid

Expected draft placement

Thompson is a solid second-round prospect and shouldn't slide out of the round. He could draw interest from 3-4 and 4-3 teams. Expect the Carolina Panthers, Miami Dolphins, New York Giants, San Diego Chargers, Philadelphia Eagles and New England Patriots to all show interest in him.