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Ron Thompson
Former Syracuse Orange defensive end Ron Thompson signed the Indianapolis Colts Sunday evening as an undrafted free agent, less than one hour after the 2016 NFL Draft concluded. Thompson announced the news on Twitter.
Just thanking God for the opportunity and also the @Colts for making it possible
— Ron Thompson Jr (@RonCuse13) April 30, 2016
Thompson, who left Syracuse as a redshirt junior with one year of eligibility remaining, led the Orange with seven sacks and four forced fumbles last season. In addition, he recorded 35 total tackles, including 9.5 for a loss.
However, Thompson posted poor numbers at the NFL Combine, including running the 40-yard dash in a disappointing 4.92 seconds and only recording 18 reps on the bench press–the fourth-lowest total out of all participating defensive lineman.
Despite his unimpressive NFL Combine performance, Thompson was still projected to be drafted in the sixth round, according to CBS. Instead, Thompson will now have to prove himself as an undrafted free agent.
Julian Whigham
The former Orange corner told Syracuse.com that he will sign with the Buffalo Bills as an undrafted free agent.
— Julian Whigham (@JulianWhigham) April 30, 2016
Whigham saw his production decline in recent years, in large part due to a bruised lung injury in 2013 against Florida State. He finished 2015 with 22 tackles and three pass break-ups in eleven games played.
Rob Trudo
Per an announcement by his agent, the former Syracuse OL will attend Tampa Bay Buccaneers mini-camp and hope to catch on with the squad.
Mini camp invites for #TeamDEC clients @Tindal_nation w/ @Bengals @Robtrudo & @Mkozz_5 w/ @TBBuccaneers
— DEC Management (@davidcanter) May 1, 2016
Jordan Parker w/ @AtlantaFalcons
The senior captain showed versatility during his Orange career, playing guard and center. His Pro Day numbers were pretty rough and likely killed his chances of being drafted. But now he has the chance to prove that he belongs in the NFL.
No word yet on Terrel Hunt, Oliver Vigille, or Ivan Foy but we'll keep an eye out.