The Jets signed former Minnesota Vikings offensive lineman Tom Compton to a deal on Monday.
Compton started 14 games at left guard last season for the Vikings, missing two with an injury With this move, the Jets found depth and flexibility on the interior line, something that’s been missing in past seasons. However, New York also found a player with some rather interesting off the field interests.
Let’s get to know Gang Green’s newest addition.
A South Dakota Rarity
When Tom Compton was selected in the sixth round in 2012, he became the first South Dakota Coyote drafted since 1986.
He was a three-time Great West Conference selection at South Dakota State University, which helped him earn an invitation to the East-West Shrine Game. It was there that he landed on the radar of NFL teams.
Band of Cousins
Kirk Cousins and Tom Compton became good friends when they played together in Washington from 2012-15.
While teammates in Washington, the two formed a rock band named Midnight Pilots. Cousins provided the vocals while Compton played the drums.
The two reunited last season in Minnesota. Now in green and white, Compton should know that Jets fans aren’t too fond of the lead singer of Midnight Pilots.
Sharknado 3
In addition to his music career, Tom Compton has made a movie appearance as well.
Compton made a cameo in the 2015 film “Sharknado 3: Oh Hell No!” as a television reporter. He even got credit for the gig on IMDb.
Not only can the Jets’ newest addition play multiple positions on the offensive line, but he can sing and act, too.
Super Bowl appearance
Brian Poole wasn’t the only Jets addition this offseason to be on the losing end of Super Bowl LI.
Tom Compton started on the Falcons offensive line during their Super Bowl loss to the Patriots. Like Poole, he comes to New York with the chance to seek revenge two times a season against the team who robbed him of a ring.
