After redshirting during the 2010 season, Thompson's first significant amount of play time would come during the 2012 season. He earned his first career start on September 8, 2012, after Connor Shaw was injured during the season opener at Vanderbilt. Thompson would use that opportunity to lead the Gamecocks to a 48-10 route of East Carolina.[3] He finished the season with 66 completions on 127 passing attempts, netting 1,027 passing yards and 11 touchdowns (1 rushing).[4]
In 2013, Thompson again performed backup duties. He played in 10 of the Gamecocks' 13 games, earning a start at conference foe Missouri.[5] Thompson finished the season with 52 completions on 89 passing attempts, netting 783 passing yards and 5 touchdowns (1 rushing).[4]
Prior to the 2014 season, Thompson was named the starting quarterback.[6] Thompson started all 13 games for the Gamecocks. Despite his record-breaking offensive performance,[7] he led the team to a comparatively lackluster season, largely due to poor defensive play.[8] He would end the season (and his college career) with a 24–21 victory over the Miami Hurricanes in the 2014 Independence Bowl and as the SEC leader in several passing statistics.[4]
Thompson was signed to the 49ers' practice squad on September 6, 2015.[12] He was promoted to the active roster on November 21, 2015, as backup to Blaine Gabbert after Colin Kaepernick was placed on injured reserve for the rest of the season.[13] On May 6, 2016, Thompson was released by the 49ers.[14]
Los Angeles Rams
On June 7, 2016, Thompson was signed by the Los Angeles Rams. On August 30, 2016, he was released by the Rams.[15]
On May 30, 2017, Thompson was re-signed by the Rams.[16] He was waived by the Rams on June 15, 2017.[17]
In 2018, Thompson was hired by the Detroit Lions as a character coach.[19] While he assisted with many programs his main duties were to help players with the NFL transition and to help with support off of the field.
Houston Texans
On February 11, 2021, Thompson was hired as the director of team development for the Houston Texans.[20]
Washington Commanders
On June 25, 2024, Thompson was named the senior director of team support and advancement of the Washington Commanders.[21][22]
References
^"Dylan Thompson Bio". University of South Carolina Official Athletic Site. Archived from the original on December 3, 2011. Retrieved November 8, 2015.