Georgia Tech continues to make an impact on recruits, and recruits are very interested in the program. One of them is the 2027 EDGE Rusher Dante Seal. Shields talked about what stands out about Georgia Tech’s program.
“I like Georgia Tech because it’s close to my hometown in Alabama (less than 3 hours away). I like the environment. The fans, coaches, and players are all cool and very friendly. “I liked the whole Georgia Tech football team and the culture of the coaching staff. They never gave up and kept fighting until the end against Notre Dame,” Shields said.
The game was considered a home game for the Yellow Jackets, but it was played at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. It remained a factor and caught the eye of the SEALs. He also got to meet QB Zach Pyron, who played in the same area as he played in high school at Alabama.
“The atmosphere at Mercedes-Benz Stadium was exciting. The GT fans continued to support the team and the marching band was in full swing throughout the game. It was great to see the players up close from the sidelines.” Shields said. “Zach Pyron #5, who started as QB in this game, goes to the same personal trainer as me (Kevin Love) in Birmingham, so he’s an older player from where I played college football. It’s always good to see it coming.”It just shows me that I can be successful and play at the next level like Zach. ”
Outside of linebackers and edge, coach Kyle Pope has been scouting Shields, and Shields likes the relationship, although no offer has been extended yet. We will continue to pay close attention and monitor this.
“It was my first time meeting Coach Pope and from our first conversation I could tell he was a very good coach with a lot of energy and a lot of knowledge about the game. I look forward to continuing to build our relationship with them,” said Shields.
In 2024, Shields recorded 22 tackles, four sacks, three QB hurries, and one forced fumble. Shields has taken advantage of his opportunities on defense this season and wreaked havoc on opposing offenses. He seems to be getting better and better with each game.
“My second football season is going very well and I love the fact that I get to start and contribute and play in a very dominant defense. We are currently 7-2. , we look forward to competing in the 7A state playoffs soon,” Shields said.
Regarding his recruitment, Shields has five offers per 247Sports. Those offers come from Georgia State, Mississippi State, South Carolina, Troy, and UAB. Shields continues to perform impressively in his second year, and the EDGE rusher is expected to receive even more offers. He also plays as one of the best defensive backs in the state of Alabama. Hewitt-Trussville is giving up just 9.7 points per game this year.
If you watch his tape, he’s very disciplined in the gaps. He is good at setting up and containing an advantage in the run game. Shields is also good at getting off blocks and getting into the backfield to make plays. When it comes to his pass rush repertoire, he is good at using bull rushes to cut opposing offensive linemen’s hands out of his path, and he is also good at using a quick first step to get around offensive linemen. . Shields has just scratched the surface of his potential.
It’s never too early for the Yellow Jackets to recruit the 2027 class and get a good look at the Yellow Jackets of the future. Despite the loss to Notre Dame, Georgia Tech does a good job of resonating with freshmen and providing a great experience on game day visits.