Syracuse linebacker Stefon Thompson was named a Freshman All-American by the Football Writers of America, making him the third ‘Cuse rookie defender to earn a spot on a freshman All-America team.
Another rookie defender gets a Freshman All-America nod.
? @S_Thompson000https://t.co/NzfNlHTLUL pic.twitter.com/gvKz3SQVgT
— Syracuse Football (@CuseFootball) January 18, 2021
Thompson joins redshirt freshman Garret Williams (The Athletic) and fellow true freshman Ja’Had Carter (Rivals) in earning the honor.
The Charlotte, North Carolina native appeared in 10 games during his first year at SU, starting seven at linebacker. He was the first true freshman to earn a starting spot out of camp at linebacker in 10 years, after Dyshawn Davis did so in 2011. Thompson finished his rookie year with 35 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, 3.0 sacks and a forced fumble.
He had four tackles for loss in Syracuse’s matchup with Louisville, the single-game freshman record and tied for the third-most by an ACC player in a game this season.
Thompson is one-of-four players from the ACC tabbed to the FWAA Freshman All-America team, joining Notre Dame running back Kyren Williams and Pitt offensive lineman Matt Goncalves on offense and Clemson defensive tackle Myles Murphy on defense.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].