Indianapolis Colts: 5 Rookies to Watch in Hall of Fame Game

Jul 28, 2016; Anderson, IN, USA; Indianapolis Colts general manager Ryan Grigson watches during the Indianapolis Colts NFL training camp at Anderson University. Mandatory Credit: Mykal McEldowney/Indy Star via USA TODAY NETWORK
Jul 28, 2016; Anderson, IN, USA; Indianapolis Colts general manager Ryan Grigson watches during the Indianapolis Colts NFL training camp at Anderson University. Mandatory Credit: Mykal McEldowney/Indy Star via USA TODAY NETWORK /
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Jul 27, 2016; Anderson, IN, USA; Indianapolis Colts linebacker Ron Thompson (59) hits the tackling dummy during training camp at Anderson University. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kryger/Indianapolis Star via USA TODAY Sports /

Outside Linebacker Ron Thompson

Ron Thompson is another Indianapolis Colts’ rookie that is not getting much attention. However, he is an outside linebacker, and the Colts need to build some depth at this position. Thompson is a candidate for one of those roster spots.

The Colts are desperate for young pass rushers. Their top three outside linebackers Robert Mathis, Erik Walden and Trent Cole are older than 30 years old. At some point, these guys will get worn out. The Colts have to be ready for it.

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Thompson is an undrafted rookie out of the University of Syracuse. In three seasons, he accumulated 20 tackles for loss and 12 sacks, including seven sacks in his final season. He was a defensive end in college so he is doing his best to adjust to the outside linebacker position with the Colts.

Thompson is having a nice training camp so far. According to a couple of observers, Thompson has looked solid in pass rushing drills. The good notes from camp practices make him an intriguing player to watch in the Colts’ first preseason game.

Thompson is most likely battling with Trevor Bates for the fourth outside linebacker spot on the depth chart. In fact, both will probably be on the field at the same time Sunday. For this reason, it is important for Thompson to make a couple of good plays and limit mistakes.

Next: Colts: Denzelle Good is Early Favorite to be Starting RG

By the time Thompson touches the field Sunday, he will probably not be facing first-team offensive linemen. However, the Indianapolis Colts will still be interesting to see if he can pressure the quarterback.