As a high school junior, Josh Shelton’s recruitment began when then Arkansas head coach Bobby Petrino offered him a scholarship. Nearly two and half years later, with a year of prep school under his belt, the talented defensive back from Mount Juliet, Tenn. had no idea that his recruiting process would end with the same coach that started it.
Josh Shelton looked like he was headed for Ole Miss out of high school but went the Prep School route instead.
That’s exactly what happened when Western Kentucky Head Coach Bobby Petrino offered Shelton a scholarship.
“Yes sir, I committed to Western Kentucky,” stated Josh Shelton. “I feel like it was meant to be. I got the offer on Saturday, and I went ahead and committed to Western Kentucky. Coach Petrino gave me my first offer when I was in high school so it is great.”
Josh Shelton was a highly sought after prospect in high school. At one time he held offers from Middle Tennessee, Arkansas, Arkansas State, and Vanderbilt.
Shelton chose to go through the prep school route as he spent this past season at Jireh Prep. The talented defensive back believes that year helped him not only on the gridiron but also prepare for college life.
After a solid season at Jireh Prep, Shelton held an offer from Alabama State, as well as interest from Ole Miss, Kentucky, and Middle Tennessee. Despite the interest, Shelton felt that his talents were best suited for Bowling Green, Kentucky.
“I chose Western Kentucky because it’s close to home. They have a really good team, and I feel like I can compete for early playing time,” stated Shelton.
Shelton has played mostly corner throughout his football career, but he also has the versatility to play safety with his 6’2, 185 pound frame. So where do the Hilltoppers plan to use him?
“Western Kentucky’s staff told me I would play safety at first, but then they told me they like me at corner so either/or. It doesn’t matter to me,” said Shelton.
Shelton plans to officially visit the school on January 11th, and he plans to early enroll at Western Kentucky.
- Justin Angel
- Contributor - Vandy247