Jets bulk up D-line with Nathan Shepherd in 3rd round

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