Shaheer McBride is getting a chance. He is an example of a Division I-AA football player who has an uphill battle, but has been given an opportunity to showcase his talents in front of scouts that have never witnessed him play. Shaheer broke many records as a Delaware State wide receiver and has been rewarded with an invitation to the NFL draft combine, which will take place in its usual location of Indianapolis on February 20-26.
Maybe Shaheer gets drafted in the 7th round. Maybe he becomes another un-drafted free agent who ends up getting a shot in the league and performs well his rookie year (see: Pierre Thomas). NFL Draft Dog ranks Shaheer as its #31 overall Small School Prospect heading into the draft. WalterFootball.com believes that if McBride drops his 40 time to 4.45, he has a chance at being a late round pick, but currently lists Shaheer as a potential free agent and ranks him the #50 WR.
There is at least one person who is willing to take a chance on the D I-AA wide out. His name is Tony Paige and he is part of the Perennial Sports & Entertainment team of agents. Tony is a former Virginia Tech Hokie and NFL fullback who received playing time with the Jets, Lions, and Dolphins. He also knows about being overlooked (as a former 6th round pick), who then fought hard in order to succeed on the field and eventually captured 9 years of NFL experience.
Take a quick look at Perennial’s NFL client list. It seems like nothing special. In fact, you have probably never heard of a single one of their clients. However, it is important to remember that this is an extremely difficult business to start a new agency in and once you do muster up the courage to start a firm, it is nearly impossible to go for the top players in a sport right off the bat. Risks need to be taken and agents hope for high rewards. Tony Paige will be hoping that Shaheer McBride will work hard for the next 6 weeks and cut down his 40 time along with prepare for other aspects of the combine. I will be rooting along the way, rooting that Tony’s risk of funding Shaheer’s workouts turns into a great reward.
