Louisiana State University, August 18, 2025
News Summary
Josh Thompson, a graduate of Fenton High School, has transferred to Louisiana State University (LSU) Tigers after a successful time at Northwestern University. Known for his impressive skills on the offensive line, Thompson is set to help the LSU team as they recover from the loss of four starting linemen. His high school career showcased his talent, and at Northwestern, he solidified his position with 21 total starts, making him a valuable addition to the LSU squad as they aim for a strong season ahead.
Fenton – Josh Thompson, a graduate of Fenton High School, has made an impactful transfer to the Louisiana State University (LSU) Tigers football team after a successful stint at Northwestern University. Thompson is expected to play a crucial role on the offensive line this upcoming season, bolstering the LSU squad that is reeling from the departure of four starting linemen.
Thompson, who graduated from Fenton High School in 2021, quickly established himself as a talented offensive lineman during his high school career. As a four-year letterman, he contributed to his team’s impressive record of 34-9. Rated as one of the top linemen nationally, Thompson was recognized as the 35th-best offensive guard and the 20th-best recruit in Michigan by 247Sports. His outstanding performance earned him numerous accolades, including first-team all-area honors three times, all-state recognition as a junior, and the role of team captain.
Originally committed to Texas Tech, Thompson transferred to Northwestern University where he redshirted for the 2021 season. During 2022, he played in eight games, and over the next two seasons, he cemented his position on the starting line-up with 21 total starts—11 at right tackle and 10 at right guard. Across his tenure at Northwestern, Thompson accumulated a total of 1,429 career offensive snaps, allowing only two sacks in 833 pass-blocking opportunities. Notably, he did not surrender a single sack in the final 18 games he played for Northwestern.
In the world of college football, Thompson gained attention as the No. 2 interior offensive line transfer and ranked 23rd overall by On3’s Transfer Portal Industry Rankings. His transfer to LSU comes after substantial interest from several other prominent programs including Auburn, Michigan, Ohio State, and Tennessee. The LSU Tigers, a powerhouse in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), finished the previous season with a 9-4 record and continue to position themselves for a strong run in pursuit of a College Football Playoff spot.
Thompson’s recent visit back to Fenton included picking up a Ford Bronco Raptor from a local dealership, showcasing his roots and community ties. Alongside Thompson, other notable Fenton graduates making an impact in collegiate athletics include Kristian Kilpatrick at Wayne State University, John Dixner at Norwich University, and Kaiden Long at the University of Saint Francis, Indiana.
As he prepares for his final year of college football, Thompson aims to leverage his time at LSU as a potential stepping stone toward a career in the NFL, embodying the aspirations of many young athletes from his hometown.
Background on LSU Football
The LSU Tigers have a rich history in college football, highlighted by their Division 1 National Championship victory in 2019. As an institution noted for its athletic prowess, LSU’s football program continues to attract top-tier talent, making future seasons promising for both players and fans alike.
Key Stats of Josh Thompson
- High School Record: 34-9 at Fenton High School
- National Ranking: 35th-best offensive guard, 20th-best recruit in Michigan (247Sports)
- College Snaps: 1,429 career offensive snaps at Northwestern
- Sacks Allowed: Only 2 sacks allowed in a total of 833 pass-blocking opportunities
- Starting Games: 21 total starts at Northwestern (11 at right tackle, 10 at right guard)
Frequently Asked Questions
What high school did Josh Thompson graduate from?
Josh Thompson graduated from Fenton High School in 2021.
How did Thompson perform at Northwestern University?
At Northwestern, Thompson played in eight games in 2022, started 21 games over his last two seasons, and did not allow a single sack in his final 18 games.
Why did Josh Thompson transfer to LSU?
Thompson transferred to LSU to significant contribute to the team following the departure of four starting offensive linemen and to pursue a potential NFL career.
Chart: Josh Thompson’s Career Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| High School | Fenton High School, graduated 2021 |
| High School Record | 34-9 |
| Rankings | 35th-best offensive guard nationally |
| College Experience | Northwestern University |
| Career Snaps | 1,429 offensive snaps |
| Sacks Allowed | 2 sacks allowed |
| Transfer Interest | Auburn, Michigan, Ohio State, Tennessee |
| New Team | LSU Tigers |
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