After the 2026 NFL Draft, Texas Longhorns defensive tackle Travis Shaw will be hoping to prove himself and earn a roster spot at the next level. A former five star prospect, Shaw spent three seasons as a North Carolina Tar Heel before spending a lone season in Austin.
Coming out of high school, Shaw was an elite prospect with 30-plus offers and a No. 20 national rating in the 247Sports Composite rankings. Despite the superb athleticism out of high school, Shaw struggled to immediately dominate at North Carolina like many predicted, in part because of persistent knee issues.
In his first two seasons, Shaw accumulated just 29 tackles and 1.5 tackles for loss. However, he showed significant improvement during his third campaign, grading 16 points higher than the previous season according to PFF and posting career highs in tackles (26), TFLs (four), and turnovers (two).
With the departure of head coach Mack Brown, Shaw entered the transfer portal and filled a much-needed role for the Longhorns. While hoping for a late-career resurgence like previous Texas defensive linemen, Shaw primarily provided depth for the Longhorns. He participated in 13 games and notched 13 tackles and a tackle for loss.
In his career, Shaw tallied 68 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, and four passes defended while competing in 50 games.
Listed at 6’5, 342 pounds, Shaw is an intriguing prospect. His physical attributes are on par with other NFL hopefuls despite limited production. His 2024 campaign would suggest he has the potential to continue his career at the next level, but the drop-off in production in 2025 is undoubtedly worrisome for any NFL coaching staff. Currently projected an undrafted free agent, Shaw will need to prove himself during rookie minicamp if he hopes to secure a roster spot.
