Analyzing Thorns rookie signee Payton Linnehan

The Portland Thorns just signed the no. 11 overall pick in the latest NWSL Draft - here's what to expect from forward Payton Linnehan.

Photo: Thorns FC/ Craig Mitchelldyer

Last week, the Portland Thorns announced that they signed first-wound draft pick Payton Linnehan to a two-year contract with a mutual third-year option.

“"We drafted Payton in the first round because of the potential we saw in her based on her performance at the collegiate level. After having her with the team these past few weeks it’s been exciting to see how seamlessly she fits in with our group and our culture and we look forward to seeing what she will bring on and off the field," General Manager and President of Soccer Operations Karina LeBlanc said of the signing.

“Payton has had a positive impact on our environment since she stepped into it, she is hard working, takes care of her body and preparation, along with being incredibly dedicated to getting better,” Head Coach Mike Norris said. “We feel her athleticism and mindset to go forward are a great fit for us and we are super excited to add her to our Thorns family and look forward to seeing her shine.”

You can read the team’s press release on Linnehan’s signing here.

The right winger is a necessary addition to the club and fans are eager to see her in action on the field. Will she be able to complement Morgan Weaver and Sophia Smith in the final third?

What is more, she doesn’t only generate high expectations on the attacking side but also could contribute in the midfield. Linnehan is a Penn State graduate and therefore a former teammate of Sam Coffey, and back in their college days, those two showed a very valuable connection all over the field, especially in the middle and in the final third.

Let’s see some of her qualities to see how she can help the team in this new era.