Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Nathan Shepherd (Fort Hays St.) - 2018 NFL Draft Pick #72 by NYJ


What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Nathan Shepherd - 2018 NFL Draft

Player Profile:
  • Name: Nathan Shepherd
  • College: Fort Hays State
  • Position: Defensive Tackle
  • Height: 6'4"
  • Weight: 315 lbs
Strengths:
  • Exceptional size and athleticism for his position, allowing him to hold the point of attack effectively.
  • Strong upper body and quick hands, which help him shed blockers and disrupt plays in the backfield.
  • Versatility to play in multiple defensive schemes, including 4-3 and 3-4 alignments.
  • Good motor and work ethic, consistently showing effort on every play.
  • Impressive performance in the Senior Bowl, showcasing his skills against top-tier competition.
Weaknesses:
  • Lack of experience at a higher level of competition, having played at a smaller school.
  • Technique can be inconsistent; needs to refine pass-rushing moves and hand placement.
  • Can struggle with double teams; needs to develop better leverage and footwork.
Overall Assessment:

Nathan Shepherd is an intriguing prospect who has the physical tools and potential to develop into a solid NFL defensive lineman. His performance during the Senior Bowl and the NFL Combine helped to elevate his draft stock, demonstrating that he can compete at a higher level. While he may need time to adjust to the speed and complexity of the NFL game, his natural ability and work ethic make him a worthwhile selection for teams looking to bolster their defensive front.

Projected Draft Round:

Shepherd was projected to be selected in the 3rd to 5th round of the 2018 NFL Draft.