Michigan Football: Interview with Cass Tech Rising Star DE Jalen Thompson
Written by Charlie Beuttel
Twitter: @charlie_cds3
Jalen Thompson had a breakout season in 2020 for the Technicians of Cass Tech in Detroit. The young defensive end had 30 total tackles, nine sacks, and two forced fumbles on a defensive unit that gave up just 11 points a game as they finished 9-1.
The 6’4″, 240-pound, tackle machine has a great burst of speed off the snap, great tackling ability, and closing speed. Thompson also has good footwork, athleticism, and strength.
This Class of 2023 recruit is currently working hard to earn his first offer as he has plans of honing his craft and improving his skills to have a great last two high school football seasons.
Not only does Thompson work hard on the gridiron and in the weight room but also holds a 3.5 GPA in the classroom.
In an exclusive Recruiting News Guru interview, I caught up with Jalen to talk about his breakout sophomore season and his preparations for his junior season.
Interview
Jalen, how would you grade your performance during your sophomore season?
I feel that I did well this season but there are always places I can improve.
Which would you say was your best game and why?
I would say my best game was the game against Cody, because I had a lot of tackles and that was my opportunity to start.
What are your strengths on the football field?
I’m very fast off the ball and great at reading the offense.
What do you like most about playing defensive end?
I love that I have an opportunity every play to make a tackle and I have room to do my moves.
What type of challenges did you face in the 2020 season?
The COVID situation with the stop and go during the season.
How did you overcome these challenges?
I just made sure I kept working to stay ready and prepared.
Is there an NFL player that you try to model your game after?
Chase Young.
What are your maxes in the weight room?
My max bench is 315 and my max squat is 600.
What do you like most about playing at Cass Tech?
We play as a team and it feels like a family.
What is your favorite subject in school and why?
Math, because it is really easy for me and I enjoy it.
What is your GPA?
3.5.
What are your goals for the offseason?
I’m going to work on the little arts and crafts to become stronger, faster, and a better athlete overall.
Thank you for your time today.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Twitter.com; Cass Tech DE Jalen Thompson