The University of Texas at Austin Athletics
Tracking the Longhorns: Mykkele Thompson on the NFL Draft
05.02.2015 | Football
Defensive back was selected by New York Giants with the eighth choice in the fifth round
2015 NFL Draft Index | Thompson taken in Fifth Round by NY Giants | Video: Highlights of Thompson | Photo Gallery: Thompson in action
Defensive back Mykkele Thompson was selected by the New York Giants with the eighth pick in the fifth round of the 2015 NFL Draft.
A two-year starter who played all 52 games the last four seasons, Thompson watched the draft unfold in San Antonio with his family.
Defensive back Mykkele Thompson
On receiving the initial call: At first I thought it was just a text message or something coming in, but I noticed the New York area code. I saw they had the next pick and my heart started racing. They told me they were about to put my name in for the next pick, and it was just a great feeling.
On prior contact with the Giants: That was the only team that I took a visit to. I went and saw their facilities and everything and got a great vibe from everyone on the staff. I had a feeling I would end up with them, I just didn't know when it was going to happen.
On the trip: It was a little chilly, but that's something I can deal with. Overall it was just a great trip getting to know the staff and getting a little insight on the defense and the coaching staff in general.
On what his draft day was like: I wasn't really trying to have a party or anything. I was just here (in San Antonio) with my family relaxing on the couch. I didn't have plans for a large get together or anything.
On his family's reaction when the call came: They were trying to eavesdrop on it, but I wasn't saying too much myself on the phone. When it actually came on the television, they burst out in joy, of course. My mom still can't stop crying.
On having two Longhorns in Chykie Brown and Chris Ogbonnaya in New York: I haven't had a chance to spend time with Chris, but of course Chykie, with him being a DB, we've had conversations. It's always great to know somebody that's from your school on the roster. I know Chykie will do nothing but push me.
On continuing the Texas DBU tradition: It's always great. The older guys laid the foundation for us, and we just want to uphold the tradition they put ahead and keep it going. It's great to part of something like that.
On how prepared he feels coming out of Texas: Most guys that have been here during my career at Texas, they have a part in today happening for me. (Former defensive backs) coach (Duane) Akina built me and was the first coach I knew as a defensive back with coach (Mack) Brown. He pretty much molded me into what he believed I could be. Then coach (Charlie) Strong's staff with (defensive backs) coach (Chris) Vaughn and (defensive coordinator/secondary) coach (Vance) Bedford, they built on that and helped me improve my game all around.
