The Eagles have added several young players to their roster this offseason with the hope of finding hidden gems and potential standouts on offense and defense. The team's draft haul has been well-received and several of their undrafted additions have stuck out as well. One of those undrafted prospects is former Youngstown State tight end Will Shaw.
A former Mesa Community College defensive back, Shaw transferred to Youngstown State shortly before his sophomore year. During his first season with the team in 2010, Shaw played safety for the Penguins. Heading into his junior year, he was converted to tight end and caught eight passes for 200 yards and three touchdowns. After getting adjusted to his new role, Shaw became a full-time starter in his senior season. Last year, Shaw led the team with 35 catches for 429 yards and five touchdowns.
Shaw went undrafted in April and received a tryout with the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Eagles signed Shaw shortly after the team's rookie minicamp in May. Shaw is currently fighting for the fourth tight end spot on the Eagles' roster with the likes of Clay Harbor, Derek Carrier and Emil Igwenagu. Listed at 6-foot-3 and 242 pounds, Shaw has the size to excel in the NFL, but needs to improve his blocking to last at the next level. According to Bleeding Green Nation's Brandon Lee Gowton, Shaw has made some pretty impressive catches and is like practice squad candidate. With five weeks left in training camp and four preseason games in the near future, it's up to Shaw to prove he is worth keeping on the active roster.
Here is Shaw on a trick play against Pittsburgh:
For more information on the latest editions to the Eagles' roster, before sure to check out the "Eagle's Player Profiles" page.