2022 OL Drew Shelton Thrilled for Notre Dame Offer

2022 Downingtown West (Pa.) offensive lineman Drew Shelton‍ is a name fans around the country will know in probably a few more months. 

The 6-foot-5, 270-pounder holds a double-digit offer list and it's growing by the day. Notre Dame was the latest school to jump in the mix as the Fighting Irish offered on Friday.

"My head coach told me to block out a time spot because Coach (Jeff) Quinn from Notre Dame wanted to talk to me," Shelton said. "That's when it really popped into my head that I might be getting offered by Notre Dame. 

"When I called Coach Quinn, it was surreal." 

The four-star prospect was excited for the offer as he knows the opportunity Notre Dame presents on and off the field. 

"It's a historic program and a great football team," stated Shelton. "They also have a great education as well - two big things." 

Quinn made a great first impression on Shelton, but also his mother.   

"He came off as a great guy," explained Shelton. "He spoke about what he believes in and what he's heard about me. He told me what he looks for in a player. 

"My mom was on the phone with us and he made a connection with her. He knew a lot about her hometown and that was big to me. He made a great impression." 

Shelton's recruiting process took off recently and while he's still getting used to it, the Downingtown West star is embracing it.

"It's crazy," said Shelton. "Three months ago, I was unknown and no one knew about me. Now, I have all these big-time schools chasing me. It's surreal. It's a crazy experience and time, but I'm enjoying it.

"Penn Stating being the hometown school, I was like 'Wow. I really did this.' When Pitt came in - both are Power 5 schools from my state, it made me realize I was doing something." 

Shelton knows his recruitment is just starting and wants to make visits to figure out what he wants in a school outside of coaching and education. 

"I'm looking for a great coach that is going to develop me and a great education," Shelton explained. "I'm going to use my visits to really further that. I'm not really sure what I'm looking for because it's still early in my process. Once I can take visits, it will be a lot easier." 

When it comes to his game, Shelton isn't afraid of contact, but played to his athleticism last year. This offseason he's focused on adding weight to become a more complete player. 

"I believe my strength is my athleticism and determination," said Shelton. "I was a little on the lighter side last year playing at 250-255. Those two things made it easier for me. It made it hard for defenders to beat me. 

"This offseason, I'm really working on my strength and trying to keep my athleticism. I'm focused on getting bigger and stronger. I'm up to 270, so I've added 15 pounds. I want to get bigger and be the best player I can be."