The New York Jets selected defensive tackle Nathan Shepherd out of Fort Hays State in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft with the 72nd overall pick.
Shepherd, a native of Ajax, Ontario, was the second player selected by the Jets in this draft after the club picked quarterback Sam Darnold third overall. The small-school product joins a defensive line that lost Muhammad Wilkerson and Sheldon Richardson in the last 12 months.
Nathan Shepherd Bio
Position: DT
School: Fort Hays State
College Experience: Senior
Height: 6-5
Weight: 315 lbs
What the analysts are saying
- "Shepherd is a project, but he could be well worth a team's time thanks to his NFL-caliber traits and his flashes as a pass-rusher. Shepherd lined up inside in college, but may be better suited as a four- or five-technique in a 3-4 front." - Lance Zierlein, NFL.com
- "A massive, powerful defender with the frame to add even more quality bulk, Shepherd is one of this year’s most intriguing prospects."
- Luke Easterling, DraftWire - "Shepherd is an upfield player who likely requires a redshirt NFL season in year one, which isn’t ideal for a player who turns 25 years old as a rookie, but his exciting traits are promising for a patient coaching staff."
- Dane Brugler, NFLDraftScout.com
Athletic testing
| Event | Result |
|---|---|
| 40-Yard Dash | 5.09 secs |
| Vertical Jump | 31 inches |
| Broad Jump | 112 inches |
| 3-Cone Drill | 7.5 secs |
| 20-yd Shuttle | 4.53 secs |
