Thompson Lets Production Speak for Itself, Realizes Lifelong Dream with Commitment to West Virginia…

Thompson Lets Production Speak for Itself, Realizes Lifelong Dream with Commitment to West Virginia

 

For standout linebacker Marcus Thompson, silence has always been a strength. While others boasted stats or posted highlight reels, Thompson simply let his play do the talking. On Friday, the 6-foot-2, 220-pound tackling machine from Huntington High School made the announcement he’s dreamed of his whole life: he’s committed to play football at West Virginia University.

“This has always been home,” Thompson said. “Wearing the Flying WV, representing my state—that’s the dream. I’ve worked for this since I was a kid.”

Thompson’s commitment to West Virginia caps a recruiting journey that has gained momentum over the past year. Despite flying under the radar early, his relentless work ethic and on-field dominance couldn’t be ignored. In his junior season, Thompson racked up 112 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, 6 sacks, and forced four fumbles—numbers that demanded attention from college scouts.

But even as offers trickled in from Group of Five schools and regional FCS programs, Thompson stayed focused on one goal.

“Other schools reached out, and I appreciated every one of them,” he said. “But in the back of my mind, I always hoped WVU would call.”

That call finally came in April, following a standout performance at a regional combine and a string of eye-opening game tapes that circulated among Power Five recruiters. West Virginia linebackers coach Jeff Koonz made the first contact, and from there, things progressed quickly.

“Coach Koonz told me they loved my instincts and toughness,” Thompson said. “They said I play with the kind of edge they want on their defense. That meant a lot.”

Thompson visited Morgantown in early June, and the visit sealed the deal. The facilities impressed him, the coaching staff made him feel like family, but most of all—it just felt right.

“It felt like I belonged there,” he said. “I saw myself in that jersey, running out of the tunnel at Milan Puskar. It gave me chills.”

For WVU, Thompson represents more than just another in-state recruit. He’s a player who embodies the grit and passion West Virginia football is built on. Head coach Neal Brown has emphasized the importance of keeping homegrown talent in-state, and Thompson is a prime example of that strategy paying off.

“He’s the kind of player that changes a locker room,” said Huntington head coach Billy Seals. “He doesn’t say much, but when he hits the field, everybody watches. WVU’s getting a special one.”

Now, with his commitment made, Thompson is focused on finishing his senior year strong and preparing for the next level. He knows the work is far from over.

“This is just the beginning,” he said. “I’ve got goals—help WVU win the Big 12, play on Sundays one day. But right now, I’m just thankful. I get to represent my state and my family doing what I love. That means everything.”

For Marcus Thompson, the dream has always been West Virginia. And now, it’s home.