Thompson junior and Southern Cal commitment Anquon Fegans emerged as one of the state’s most opportunistic defensive backs in 2022, snagging nine interceptions and returning three for touchdowns.

Expect him to catch passes from Thompson quarterbacks Trent Seaborn and Zach Sims this fall.

Thompson coach Mark Freeman confirmed during the AHSAA Kickoff Classic media event earlier this week that Fegans – ranked among the nation’s top 50 prospects in the Class of 2025 – will add receiver to this resume this fall as the Warriors chase a fifth straight Class 7A title.

RELATED: Mr. Football contenders in 2023

“We’re going to play him on offense,” Freeman said. “If there’s kids on our team that can bring value to our team and help us be successful and they’re mature enough and they know what to do, I’m going to play those kids.

“He’s dynamic with the football,” added Freeman, noting Fegans played offense in youth league and middle school games. “I want him to catch the ball and then go score touchdowns.”

Fegans logged time at cornerback and safety last season for a Thompson defense that allowed just 12.9 points per game. He also covered kickoffs en route to being one of three finalists for the Class 7A Back of the Year Award.

He said he relishes the ability to play multiple positions and has been lobbying to play receiver. “It shows I’m versatile,” he said. “It shows me and my high school team that I can go out there and play whatever position and help our team win.”

In May, Fegans committed to Southern Cal, the same school his older brother, Trequon, transferred to after leaving Alabama.

Anquon said his brother offered advice about the recruiting process. “Told me coaches will tell you what you want to hear, but go to the school that’s home for you,” Anquon said.

What made Southern Cal feel like home? “My brother, the coaching staff and being around them, talking to coach (Lincoln) Riley,” he replied.

Anquon downplayed the idea that committing so early relieves recruiting pressure. As Thompson coach Mark Freeman pointed out, rival schools often re-double their recruiting efforts after a player makes a public commitment. That dynamic, he said, can cause confusion and angst for many players.

“Recruiting is something everybody looks forward to and wants,” Freeman said. “Then, after a good summer or four or five months of it, they’re tired of it. There’s so much pull.

“It’s a good issue to get committed and get that behind you,” he added, “but at the end of the day that doesn’t stop these recruiters. They’re still coming after you.”

Anquon Fegans, meanwhile, said he’s focused on the upcoming season, as the Warriors open the season Aug. 25 at Montgomery’s Cramton Bowl against Opelika in the AHSAA Kickoff Classic. Thompson has won four straight state titles and no school has won five straight football championships since Hazlewood from 1988-92.

“I have to step up and be more of vocal leader now instead of a quiet leader,” the junior said. “We get those questions all year, like, ‘Are y’all still going to be Thompson?’ Of course, we’re still going to be Thompson. We’re going to go out there and do what we do.”