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.