Nathan Shepherd NFL Draft 2018: Scouting Report for New York Jets' Pick

POSITIVES

—Ideal height and weight for the NFL at 6'5", 315 pounds.

—A work in progress that coaches would love to get their hands on because he has room to grow and mature physically.

—With aggressive early hands, he can stack and shed with adequate strength.

—Moves well with good flexibility for a tall defensive lineman.

—Had an amazing start to the Senior Bowl before an injury to his hand.

—Explosive first step off the snap.

NEGATIVES

—Level of play at Fort Hays State.

—May not see any good production until his second or third year in the league.

—Plays too high in traffic and is easily reached with a cut block.

—Struggles to disengage from blockers.

OVERALL

With raw potential coming out of the MIAA ranks, Nathan Shepherd has the size and speed to make him an every-down player. His first-step quickness and lateral movement make him just as big of a threat on the backside as the playside. He needs to work on staying low and not letting blockers stay on him, and he'll have to prove he can compete in the NFL after years of dominating the small schools.

GRADE: 6.70 (Round 2)

PRO PLAYER COMPARISON: Kawann Short, Carolina Panthers