At 26 years old, former Major League Baseball outfielder Bubba Thompson is making a surprising career pivot, opting to return to school and pursue football. As first reported by AL.com, the ex-first-round pick of the Texas Rangers has decided to enroll at the University of South Alabama, where he plans to join the Jaguars’ football team as a walk-on. This unexpected move has been confirmed by a South Alabama spokesperson in comments to the Daily Mail.
While the decision might seem unconventional, it isn’t entirely out of left field. Thompson has a notable football background, having excelled as an All-State quarterback during his high school years at McGill-Toolen Catholic School in Mobile, Alabama. Back in 2016, he received scholarship offers from prominent programs such as the University of Tennessee and Ole Miss. Despite his promising football talent, Thompson ultimately chose to focus on baseball, setting aside the gridiron to pursue a professional career in America’s pastime.
Thompson’s baseball journey began with significant promise. Drafted in the first round by the Texas Rangers in 2017, he worked his way through the minor league system, eventually making his Major League debut in 2022. Over parts of two seasons, he played for three different teams: the Rangers, the Kansas City Royals, and the Cincinnati Reds. During his MLB career, Thompson compiled a .232 batting average, showcasing his speed and athleticism but struggling to establish consistent offensive production.
Although his time in the majors was brief, Thompson’s journey included some memorable highlights. In 2023, he began the season with the Rangers before being traded to the Royals and eventually landing with the Reds. Even though he wasn’t with Texas during their World Series-winning run that year, the Rangers still awarded him a championship ring, recognizing his contributions earlier in the season. However, by May 2024, Thompson’s baseball career appeared to hit a crossroads when he was demoted to Triple-A with the Chattanooga Lookouts, the Reds’ affiliate. Facing limited opportunities and his struggles at the plate, he opted for free agency and stepped away from baseball entirely.
Since leaving professional baseball, Thompson has been off the radar in sports circles, but his recent decision to join South Alabama’s football program has brought him back into the spotlight. The Jaguars, who play in the Sun Belt Conference, are coming off a respectable 7-6 season that included a victory over Western Michigan in the IS4S Salute to Veterans Bowl. With Thompson’s athleticism and background as a quarterback, he could add an intriguing dimension to the team’s roster.
While returning to football after an eight-year hiatus presents obvious challenges, Thompson’s natural athletic ability and competitive drive could serve him well in his transition. At McGill-Toolen, he was not only a standout quarterback but also a multi-sport athlete, traits that helped him earn his first-round draft selection in baseball. His time in professional sports likely honed his mental toughness, discipline, and adaptability—qualities that could aid him as he reacquaints himself with football.
However, there are questions about how quickly Thompson can adapt to the collegiate level of football. The pace and physicality of the game, especially after years of focusing exclusively on baseball, will require significant adjustment. South Alabama’s coaching staff will likely work closely with Thompson to assess his readiness and determine how best to utilize his skill set. Whether he competes for playing time at quarterback or shifts to another position, his unique athletic profile and high-level sports experience make him a compelling addition to the team.
Thompson’s story is not without precedent, as other professional athletes have successfully transitioned between sports. Players like Bo Jackson and Deion Sanders famously excelled in both baseball and football, setting a high bar for dual-sport athletes. While Thompson’s circumstances are different, his decision to reignite his football career speaks to his determination and willingness to embrace new challenges.
For South Alabama, adding a player with Thompson’s background could generate excitement and draw attention to the program. The Jaguars are looking to build on their recent success and establish themselves as a competitive force in the Sun Belt Conference. Thompson’s presence on the team could provide not only an on-field boost but also a morale lift for players and fans alike.
Ultimately, Bubba Thompson’s return to football represents a bold and intriguing chapter in his athletic journey. While the transition from Major League Baseball to college football is uncharted territory for most athletes, Thompson’s combination of talent, work ethic, and competitive spirit could make him a valuable asset to South Alabama. As the Jaguars prepare for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on Thompson to see how his skills translate back to the gridiron after nearly a decade away from the sport.
