2018 NFL Draft: Nathan Shepherd Scouting Report
By Jon Dove
Fort Hays State’s Nathan Shepherd is a small-school 2018 NFL Draft prospect who has flashed some big potential.
Nathan Shepherd has utilized the 2018 NFL Draft process to put himself on the radar for several teams. He’s a raw but highly athletic defender who in the right situation could develop into a difference maker. The key will be landing with a team that’s willing to be patient.
Shepherd features a long and athletic frame. He mainly played defensive tackle in college but is likely facing a move outside. His build fits what most defensive coaches look for in a defensive end prospect.
He has excellent raw athleticism with some power. Shepherd is quick off the ball and has the burst needed to close on the ball carrier. He also flashes the speed needed to close the back door working off the edge.
This is a nasty player who looks to deliver big hits and always works to the whistle. Actually, there are plenty of occasions where he still attacking when the plays over. He will need to rein himself in a little at the next level.
The biggest concern is Shepherd is that he is extremely raw. He rarely uses his hands which makes it difficult for him to get off blocks. It also results in him getting pushed off the line of scrimmage from time to time.
He needs to improve his pad level as he tends to get upright as the play develops. Shepherd would be much more effective if he consistently gained inside hands and maintained leverage.
His feel for the game and ability to locate the football are also areas that need work. This is why it’s important for Shepherd to land with a team willing to be patient. With the right coaching, Shepherd could by big dividends.