Will <?xml:namespace prefix="st1" ns="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags"?>Compton
LB, 6-2, 230, Bonne Terre, Mo. (NorthCountyHS)<?xml:namespace prefix="o" ns="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office"?>
Will Compton is one of four linebacker prospects in Nebraska's 2008 signing class. Compton joins the Nebraska program from NorthCountyHigh School where he starred on both sides of the football. Compton's signing marks the fifth straight year Nebraska has signed at least one player from the state of Missouri. The 6-2, 230-pound Compton is a physical player who has a nose for the football from his linebacker spot. During his senior season, Compton recorded 107 tackles, including 16 tackles for loss, four sacks, and two interceptions, while causing a fumble and recovering another. On offense, Compton was also a key performer for North County High and Coach David Leeds, accounting for approximately 500 rushing yards, 1,000 all-purpose yards and 14 touchdowns. His play as a senior earned Compton first-team all-state honors from the Missouri Sportswriters and Broadcasters Association. Compton also showcased his outstanding ability on both sides of the ball during his junior season, making 71 tackles, 13 tackles for loss and an interception on defense. Compton had big numbers on offense, rushing for 455 yards, while catching 51 passes for 855 yards. He earned first-team all-state honors as a receiver, while picking up all-district and all-conference honors as a linebacker. A SuperPrep All-American, Compton is ranked as the No. 3 overall prospect in the state of Missouri by Rivals.com and one of the top 40 "athletes" in the country by the recruiting service. ESPN.com and Scout.com both list Compton among the top 20 inside linebacker prospects in the nation. Compton was a defensive captain in the Offense-Defense Bowl all-star game at the Orange Bowl in January. Compton chose Nebraska over Missouri and Illinois. Compton is the son of Bill and Kathy Compton and was born on Sept. 19, 1989.