Marist’s Thompson hot commodity
Marist receiver Jadon Thompson is only a sophomore, but he’s beginning to make waves on the recruiting trail.
Thompson has received scholarship offers from Illinois, Cincinnati, Iowa State, Indiana and Minnesota, among others.
‘‘ My biggest goal this offseason is getting stronger, and I’m working on improving my jumping ability and my route- running,’’ Thompson said.
At 6- 2, Thompson is an imposing figure on the field and made a big impact for Marist last season. He already has made college visits to Minnesota and Purdue.
‘‘ My favorite part about recruiting so far is getting to build relationships with coaches from different colleges and getting to know them,’’ Thompson said. ‘‘ I’ve taken two visits so far, and I really liked the coaches and the facilities. Facilities at both were amazing, and the coaches showed me a good time.’’
There are several other schools he wants to visit, too.
‘‘ I would like to visit Illinois, Iowa State and Cincinnati sometime and anyplace else that wants me to come,’’ Thompson said. ‘‘ I’ll be looking for the environment of the school, the support system and academics. I will just be looking for a place to call home in the future.’’
Although he has a long way to go in the recruiting process, he’s a prospect to watch heading into the 2018 season.
Mallory to MSU; Mitchell to NU
Two athletes from Bolingbrook are off the board.
Senior defensive lineman Dashaun Mallory signed a letter of intent last week with Michigan State after focusing on his academics and grade- point average for the last several months. The 6- 3, 310- pound prospect had offers from all over the country.
‘‘ I am very excited,’’ Mallory said. ‘‘ Honestly, I can’t wait.’’
Mallory was a big contributor to the Raiders for the last several seasons and was one of the top defensive linemen in the area. He had racked up plenty of interest from schools during the last several years, including offers from Iowa State, Northern Illinois and Central Michigan, among others.
Defensive back Cameron Mitchell, one of Mallory’s teammates, gave an oral commitment to Northwestern. He’s one of the first juniors in the area to commit.
‘‘ I want to thank God for blessing me with the ability to play football and all the opportunities he’s presented me with,’’ Mitchell said. ‘‘ The process has been fun and stressful at the same time, but now it’s finally over.’’
Mitchell is a three- star prospect ( according to Rivals. com) and the eighth- rated athlete in Illinois’ junior class. He is expected to play cornerback and might make an impact quickly in college.