40 Facts About Nathan Shepherd

Early Life and Beginnings

Nathan Shepherd's journey to the NFL is a story of perseverance and determination. Let's dive into his early life and how he got started in football.

1. Birth and Early Life: Nathan Shepherd was born on October 9, 1993, in Ajax, Ontario, Canada. Growing up in Ajax, he developed a passion for football early on.

2. Youth Football: Shepherd played youth football with the Ajax/Pickering Dolphins Football Club. This early exposure laid the foundation for his future career.

3. College Career: Initially, Shepherd attended Simon Fraser University in Burnaby, British Columbia. Financial constraints led him to transfer to Fort Hays State University in Kansas after his second year.

4. Redshirting at Simon Fraser: In his first year at Simon Fraser, Shepherd redshirted, preserving a year of eligibility and focusing on skill development.

College Challenges and Triumphs

Nathan's college years were marked by both challenges and achievements. Here's a closer look at his time in college.

5. Starting at Fort Hays State: After transferring, Shepherd started every game in his second year as a defensive end, significantly improving his draft prospects.

6. Financial Challenges: Shepherd faced financial difficulties during college, taking time off to work various jobs, including at a plant nursery and in electrical construction.

7. Athletic Scholarship: Fort Hays State eventually offered Shepherd an athletic scholarship, allowing him to continue his football career without financial burdens.

8. College Achievements: At Fort Hays State, Shepherd was named the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association Defensive Player of the Year in 2017 and received an invitation to the 2018 Senior Bowl.

Path to the NFL

Nathan's journey to the NFL was filled with hard work and determination. Let's explore his path to becoming a professional football player.

9. Senior Bowl Participation: Although invited to the Senior Bowl, an injury kept Shepherd from participating. His combine performance and private workouts still raised his draft stock.

10. NFL Combine Performance: Shepherd attended the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, completing most drills but skipping the bench press due to a fractured hand. His performance impressed scouts.

11. Pro Day at Fort Hays State: On March 12, 2018, Shepherd held a pro day at Fort Hays State, performing positional drills for scouts and team representatives from 16 NFL teams.

12. Private Workouts and Meetings: Shepherd attended ten private meetings and performed at private workouts for multiple teams, including the Dallas Cowboys, Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, and Houston Texans.

Draft Day and Early NFL Career

Nathan's hard work paid off when he was drafted into the NFL. Here's a look at his early professional career.

13. Draft Projection: Shepherd was projected to be a second or third-round pick by NFL draft experts and scouts.

14. Draft Day: The New York Jets selected Shepherd in the third round (72nd overall) of the 2018 NFL draft, making him the sixth defensive tackle drafted that year.

15. Contract with New York Jets: On May 14, 2018, the Jets signed Shepherd to a four-year, $3.87 million contract, including a signing bonus of $987,724.

16. Suspension for PED Violation: In 2019, Shepherd was suspended for six games for violating the NFL's performance-enhancing drugs policy. He confessed to using PEDs to speed up recovery from injuries.

17. Reinstatement: Shepherd was reinstated from suspension on October 29, 2019, and activated on November 1, 2019.

Performance and Achievements with the Jets

Nathan's time with the Jets showcased his skills and determination. Let's delve into his performance and achievements.

18. Performance with New York Jets: During his time with the Jets, Shepherd averaged 32.5 snaps per game across 56 appearances, playing a critical role in the team's defensive line.

19. Career High Snaps: In the 2020 season, Shepherd played a career-high 495 snaps, and in 2021, he played 417 snaps, consistently performing well.

20. Contract Extension with Jets: On March 16, 2022, Shepherd signed a one-year contract extension with the New York Jets.

New Beginnings with the Saints

Nathan's career took a new turn when he joined the New Orleans Saints. Here's what you need to know about his time with the Saints.

21. Signing with New Orleans Saints: On March 17, 2023, Shepherd signed a three-year, $15 million contract with the New Orleans Saints, including $10.18 million in guarantees.

22. Role with New Orleans Saints: Shepherd is expected to be a tall, disruptive interior pass rusher for the Saints, likely replacing David Onyemata.

23. Competition for Playing Time: With the addition of Bryan Bresee and Khalen Saunders, Shepherd will need to improve his run defense to secure a larger role.

24. Snap Count in 2023: Shepherd is expected to lead the Saints' defensive tackles in snaps played this year, though he may not reach the average snap count of David Onyemata.

Physical Attributes and Skills

Nathan's physical attributes and skills make him a formidable player on the field. Let's take a closer look.

25. Physical Attributes: Shepherd stands at 6 feet 4 inches and weighs 315 pounds, making him an ideal interior defensive lineman.

26. College Achievements Continued: At Fort Hays State, Shepherd was named a second-team Division II all-American and conference defensive player of the year in 2016, with 12.5 tackles for loss and four sacks.

27. Recognition in the NFL: Shepherd started gaining recognition in the NFL during the 2016 season, becoming a top prospect with every team visiting him.

28. Senior Bowl Impression: At the Senior Bowl practices, scouts were impressed by Shepherd's performance, particularly his explosive power.

29. NFL Draft Analysts' Praise: NFL scout Daniel Jeremiah praised Shepherd's body type, calling him "body-beautiful" and highlighting his power and quickness.

Career Statistics and Highlights

Nathan's career statistics and highlights showcase his impact on the field. Here are some key numbers and moments.

30. Career Statistics: As of the 2023 season, Shepherd has played 172 games, with 87 solo tackles and 85 assists, nine sacks, and zero interceptions.

31. Game Highlights: In the 2022 season with the Jets, Shepherd played in 17 games, starting three, recording 33 tackles, four tackles for loss, six quarterback hits, and 1.5 sacks.

32. Pro Football Focus Grades: According to Pro Football Focus, Shepherd received a 79.5 pass rush grade compared to a 68.9 run defense grade in the 2022 season.

Current Status and Expectations

Nathan's current status and expectations for the future are promising. Here's what to expect from him moving forward.

33. Current Status: As of the 2023 season, Shepherd is an active player for the New Orleans Saints, wearing the number 93 jersey and expected to start almost every game at defensive tackle.

34. Team Performance: The New Orleans Saints are currently 2-6 in the 2023 season, with Shepherd contributing to their defensive efforts.

35. Offseason Changes: The Saints have undergone significant changes in their defensive line, signing Khalen Saunders and re-signing Malcolm Roach, adding depth to the position.

36. Realistic Expectations: Realistic expectations for Shepherd in 2023 include leading the Saints' defensive tackles in snaps played, though he may not reach the average snap count of David Onyemata.

Personal Life and Legacy

Nathan's personal life and legacy extend beyond the football field. Here's a glimpse into his life off the field.

37. Injury History: Unlike some teammates, Shepherd does not have a significant injury history, making him a reliable option for the Saints' defensive line.

38. Community Involvement: As a Canadian player, Shepherd is proud of his roots and often engages with his community, recognized for his contributions to Canadian football.

39. Personal Life: Known for his humble and hardworking nature, Shepherd's journey from working in a plant nursery to becoming an NFL player inspires many young athletes.

40. Legacy: Nathan Shepherd's legacy extends beyond his on-field performance, serving as an example of perseverance and dedication, proving that with hard work, anyone can achieve their dreams.

Nathan Shepherd: A Journey of Perseverance

Nathan Shepherd's path to the NFL is nothing short of inspiring. From his early days in Ajax, Ontario, to facing financial struggles during college, Shepherd's determination never wavered. His time at Fort Hays State University showcased his talent, earning him accolades and a spot in the NFL draft. Despite setbacks like a suspension for PED use, Shepherd bounced back, proving his resilience.

His career with the New York Jets highlighted his skills as a defensive tackle, and now with the New Orleans Saints, he's poised to make an even bigger impact. Shepherd's story is a testament to hard work, dedication, and the belief that dreams can be achieved regardless of obstacles. As he continues to play, Nathan Shepherd remains a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring athletes everywhere.