NFL Notes: Shaq Thompson, Giants, Packers, & Patriots

Shaq Thompson

• Washington’s Shaq Thompson made his case for playing linebacker in the NFL, despite the fact that some scouts believe he could be better suited as a running back.

“I want to put it out there: I’m a linebacker. Outside linebacker. Strong side, that’s where I feel most comfortable. It’s basically like a strong safety,” Thompson told USA Today Sports. “Nowadays, this is a passing game. You need linebackers who can cover and drop in zone. And I’m a three-down player. You don’t have to take me off the field. Even on special teams, you don’t have to take me off. I love special teams, especially kickoff coverage.”

Giants

• Impending free agent S Antrel Rolle mentioned that his future with the Giants remains “up in the air.“

“It’s all up in the air,” Rolle said, per Alex Marvez. “I don’t know what to expect.”

• Rolle added that he would like to return to the Giants next year.

Packers

According to Tyler Dunne of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, “odds are” Packers GM Ted Thompson will draft a quarterback for only the second time in seven years.

Interestingly enough, the Packers visited with South Alabama QB Brandon Bridge twice during the season.

Bridge says he has no problem sitting behind and learning from from Aaron Rodgers.

“The best part about Green Bay is you can learn behind Aaron Rodgers,” Bridge said. “Obviously, he’s the best quarterback in the game right now, or at least one of the best. If I got the chance to go to Green Bay and learn behind Aaron Rodgers for a couple of years, that’d be awesome.”

Patriots

• Patriots ILB Dont’a Hightower announced via his Instagram account Tuesday that he underwent shoulder surgery.