TAMPA -- With Florida thin on depth at linebacker and in the secondary, one senior player has made the move from offense to defense.

Veteran receiver Chris Thompson has spent the entirety of the bowl preparation getting ready as a cornerback. It's a move that other Florida players have made with success, most notably former receiver Quinton Dunbar, who played receiver throughout his career with the Gators before carving out a nice role for himself in the NFL with the Washington Redskins at cornerback.

"Just as a precaution for us a little bit and to give Chris a chance at looking at a position that maybe might be one of those down the road that helps him as well," coach Jim McElwain said.

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Thompson has had trouble getting on the field at receiver during his career, yet to catch a pass during the 2016 season. He has, however, been a vital player on special teams.

He's made a name for himself as a punt gunner, but he has also been involved in the return game this year. Thompson's averaging 21.8 yards per return on a team-leading 13 attempts.

But with Florida banged up in the secondary -- both starting safeties Nick Washington and Marcus Maye are out with injuries -- the Gators could use some additional depth at cornerback.

Duke Dawson will likely start at nickelback, but he could be needed at safety should anything happen to Marcell Harris or Chauncey Gardner. Both freshman safeties, Quincy Lenton (foot) and Jeawon Taylor (arm), are dealing with injuries.

Thompson may not play much, but he appears to be in line to play ahead of some of the other cornerbacks on the roster if the need arises.

"He's been working throughout camp at corner, and if need be, we'll go ahead and play him out there," McElwain said.

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