2024 FCS NFL Draft Scouting Report: Monmouth RB Jaden Shirden

We take an in-depth look at Monmouth running back Jaden Shirden, who is one of the top FCS prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft

Gerald J. Huggins II | Mar 6, 2024

2024 FCS NFL Draft Scouting Report: Monmouth RB Jaden Shirden /

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Monmouth Hawks

Monmouth RB Jaden Shirden

Height: 5-foot-8
Weight: 187 pounds
Career Statistics: 504 carries, 3,697 rushing yards, 7.3 yards per carry, 26 rushing TDs
Accolades: 2X Unanimous FCS All-American (2022-23), 2X CAA Offensive Player of the Year (2022-23), HERO Sports Sophomore All-American (2022), 2X Walter Payton Award Finalist (2022-23), Walter Camp FCS Player of the Year (2023), 2X First Team All-CAA Selection (2022-23)

Background Report:

At St. Joseph's High School and later Cheshire Academy, Shirden etched his name into Connecticut state history with a staggering 5,529 career rushing yards and 107 touchdowns. His track and field accolades, including All-State recognition, further demonstrate his athletic versatility.

Transitioning to Monmouth University in the spring of 2021, Shirden quickly made an impact despite NCAA eligibility rules initially preventing him from playing. By his sophomore year, he had become a force to be reckoned with, amassing 1,722 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns in just 11 games. His exceptional performance garnered numerous accolades, including selections to several All-America First Teams and being a prestigious Walter Payton Award finalist.

In 2023, Shirden continued his impressive career, contributing significantly to his team's offense with 1,478 rushing yards, 10 touchdowns on the ground, and additional receiving yards that underscored his versatility. His achievements were recognized with multiple awards, reaffirming his status as one of the top players in the FCS.

Scouting Report:

At 5-foot-8 and 189 lbs, Jaden Shirden may not have the typical size of an every-down back in the NFL, but he more than compensates with his explosive athleticism and playmaking ability. His early burst, linear acceleration, and long speed make him a constant threat to break off big runs. Shirden's vision, agility, and ability to find and exploit gaps in the defense are central to his success.

His approach to the line of scrimmage sometimes shows a lack of patience, and while his running style is undoubtedly explosive, increasing his power to push through contact would enhance his effectiveness. Additionally, refining his skills as a receiver and improving his blocking would increase his utility in an NFL offense.

Projection: Round 6-7

Shirden projects as a fringe NFL rotational prospect. His skill set suggests he could excel in a role that maximizes his burst and agility, particularly in systems that create opportunities for him in open space. While his size and power may be considered limitations, his ability to make plays and contribute in the passing game could make him a valuable asset in the right NFL offense.

2024 NFL Scouting Combine Results: Monmouth RB Jaden Shirden

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GERALD J. HUGGINS II

Gerald J. Huggins II is the official NFL Draft analyst for FCS Football Central. He is a scout for the East-West Shrine Bowl and DraftHBCU. Gerald also is an official voter for the Aeneas Williams and Jim Thorpe Awards. He is also the linebackers coach at Lincoln University, where he also serves as the Pro Liaison.