Jalen Thompson received recognition from NFL insiders ahead of Cowboys training camp after earning a spot in ESPN's annual safety rankings. 

RJ Ochoa noted that Thompson landed in ESPN's "Also Receiving Votes" category after narrowly missing the honorable mentions in the safety rankings.

"Jalen Thompson missed out on the honorable mentions category, but he showed up in the 'also receiving votes' portion," RJ Ochoa wrote on July 18. "This featured players like Minkah Fitzpatrick, Jalen Ramsey, and Kevin Byard for some context." 

Ahead of training camp, ESPN released its annual rankings of the NFL's top safeties based on votes from league executives, coaches, and scouts. 

According to RJ Ochoa of Bloggingtheboys, the survey also recognized several other Cowboys players across different positions, with Tyler Smith ranked No. 1 among guards, while Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb both finished sixth at their respective positions.

Thompson brings seven years of NFL experience from his time with the Arizona Cardinals. He has played 99 games with 87 starts, recording 578 tackles, nine interceptions, 37 passes defended, and 14 tackles for loss during his career, per ESPN.

In 2025, Thompson started all 15 games for Arizona and recorded 95 total tackles, six passes defended, and two tackles for loss.

Although Thompson missed ESPN's top safety rankings, votes from league executives, coaches, and scouts show the respect he has earned around the league. His experience will definitely help the Cowboys' secondary during training camp. 

Despite the recognition, some analysts believe Thompson still has areas he will need to improve as he prepares for a new chapter with the Cowboys. 

Questions remain around Thompson’s recent production

According to Bleacher Report's Moe Moton, the Cowboys have some questions to answer after investing in Jalen Thompson, especially with his recent numbers in coverage and turnovers. 

"Thompson hasn't recorded an interception since the 2023 campaign," Moton stated. “Though he's registered nine pass breakups in that time frame, the seven-year veteran also allowed passer ratings above 102."

It also noted that Thompson recorded seven of his nine career interceptions during the 2021 and 2023 seasons, while his interception numbers have dropped in recent years. 

The Cowboys signed Thompson to a three-year, $33 million contract to improve their secondary, but he will need to make an impact in coverage and create more turnovers in 2026. 

While Thompson has earned respect from NFL insiders, his performance in Dallas will determine whether he can justify the team's investment. The upcoming season will provide an opportunity for him to answer those questions. 

Do you think Thompson can succeed in Dallas? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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Written by

Divyanshi Raj

Edited by

Arundhoti Palit