Brenen

Thompson

It will be very hard for Thompson to return fantasy value, but he sure is fun. When the Chargers drafted Thompson, OC Mike McDaniel hopped on the phone to tell Thompson that he is “going to do elite stuff” in the NFL. Thompson (5'9/164) clocked a 4.26-second 40 at the NFL Scouting Combine, and GM Joe Hortiz compared Thompson’s size, height and speed combination to WRs Tyreek Hill and DeSean Jackson. Chargers WRs Ladd McConkey and Quentin Johnston appear to hold the Nos. 1 and 2 spots on the depth chart, and the team likes WR Tre’ Harris’ blocking abilities. Keep an eye on Thompson in training camp, but note that it is very hard for rotational players — assuming he earns a rotational role — to contribute in fantasy.

It’s hard to know exactly what to make of Thompson as a fourth-round pick and a track burner (4.26 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine) — two things that have a high bust rate — in dynasty circles. What we do know is that the general manager dropped these two comparisons on Thompson, that OC Mike McDaniel “told Hortiz he would take his shirt off if the team found a way to land Thompson,” and that Tre’ Harris and Derius Davis haven’t exactly established themselves as NFL stars yet. It’s certainly plausible that Thompson is fantasy-interesting in his rookie year.

What you see is what you get with Thompson. If you guessed that the 5’9/164 receiver with 4.26 wheels was a one-trick deep threat, you’d be right. Thompson spent three years at Texas and Oklahoma as a backup before finding a starting role at Mississippi State for his senior season. He went for 1,054 yards and six scores on 57 grabs. Thompson also picked up a rushing touchdown on one of his four carries. He finished fifth among Power Four wideouts in receiving yards on targets 20 or more yards downfield (478). That is about the extent of Thompson’s game. He saw just three screens in 2025 and has one career punt return. Both size and versatility limitations have the deck stacked against Thompson in the pros. The lack of designed touches is also a notable concern. Thompson will likely top out as a Travis Benjamin or J.J. Nelson type in the pros.