Hoover (Ala.) High Top247 linebacker Bradley Shaw announced his commitment to Arkansas on Christmas Day. He had already put pen to paper for the Razorbacks during the three-day Early Signing Period that began on Dec. 20.
“It’s at home,” Shaw told 247Sports. Defensive coordinator Travis Williams led the charge in recruiting the blue-chipper.
“The coaches they’ve been trying to get me since day one, make me feel at home since day one, make my family feel at home since day one. They’re showing lots of love.”
247Sports tabs the 6-foot-1, 216-pound Shaw as the nation’s No. 8 linebacker and No. 101 prospect overall. He took his official to Arkansas back in the summer and also held offers from the likes of Auburn, Alabama, Clemson and Notre Dame.
“The players,” Shaw said of what caught his eye regarding the culture. “When I had my OV I talked to the players. I asked them questions I need to be asking. They told me what it was. The group of guys coming in they’ve been recruiting me hard. I had a lot of people talking in my ear and helping with the process.”
Shaw becomes commit No. 18 for head coach Sam Pittman in the 2024 cycle and he looks forward to playing for him and Williams.
“What they’re all about,” Shaw said. “They’re great guys. I want to play for somebody that’s going to make me a better man on and off the field. Both were very genuine.”
Shaw looks forward to helping Arkansas quickly bounce back on the field.
“Up for sure,” he said of the trajectory. “This recruiting class coming in it’s going to help boost it. I think our class moving forward will be prepared to make a difference fast. Get in the playbook early and help those older guys out.”
247Sports National Analyst Cooper Petagna breaks down Shaw as a prospect.
“Estimated at 6-foot-1 and 215-pounds, possesses an athletic frame with growth potential to add additional weight to his build. Displays good athleticism at the linebacker position and is also a multi-sport athlete that participates in the shot put and discus.
“Demonstrates a high level of football intelligence and instincts at the second level, showing the ability to key and diagnose offensive schemes quickly. Exhibits good play speed both downhill and sideline to sideline while comfortable in space and pass coverage. Productive knock back tackler between the tackles that shows the ability to unlock and explode at the point of attack. Plays fast but under control and with very little wasted motion in both the run and pass.
“Has a knack for being around the football and sniffing out opposing plays before they develop. A true three down linebacker, Shaw is more of a traditional inside backer with excellent feel and instincts in the tackle box. Projects as a multi-year Power Five starter at the next level with the ability to contribute immediately on defense and special teams. One of the “headiest” defenders in the cycle regardless of position, the Hoover standout possesses an ascending ceiling with an extremely high floor due to his outstanding football acumen and second level playmaking ability.”
Shaw will play in the All-American Bowl on Jan. 6, broadcasted live nationally on NBC. Kickoff is set for 1pm (EST).
