Pitt FB Recruiting
Pitt Remains at the Top for 2021 DB Shawn Asbury
The Pitt coaching staff has consistently been in contact with 2021 defensive back Shawn Asbury (5-foot-10 inches, 175 pounds) from North Stafford High School in Fredericksburg, VA. The multi-sport standout is starting to finalize the recruiting process and Pittsburgh Sports Now caught up with him to discuss his status.
“Pitt likes me at safety, but I can gradually turn into a cornerback. I was in contact with Coach Chris Beatty for about a week then he offered me a scholarship shortly after,” stated Asbury. “Ever since the scholarship offer came thought, I’ve been in touch with the Pitt staff on a daily basis.”
Pitt’s scholarship offer is a vote of confidence in his ability and potential. Asbury was competing in a camp in February 2019 when he landed awkwardly on a play and damaged his ACL, LCL and meniscus. He rigorously leaped into therapy and worked his way back onto the football field last season.
Asbury’s first game action occurred during the seventh game of the season. Despite limited time on the field, he garnered 1st team All-Region and Class 5 All-State 2nd team honors. Larger schools seem to be waiting to watch more game film to assure he’s fully recovered. Pitt had zero reservations offering a scholarship.
“My health status is great. I had an injuring back in March of last year but I’m 100% cleared for action and played this season,” he said. “I was ready to run track until it was disrupted by the pandemic. I’m 100% healthy.”
Asbury has received 17 scholarship offers. Pitt, Kansas, Buffalo, Kent State, James Madison, Georgia State, Ohio and Delaware are amongst the schools in the mix for his services. Additional P5 schools have started to inquire about him.
When asked about his strengths as a defensive back, he stated, “I feel like I’m a great tackler in space. I can make plays from different sports on the field, either corner or safety. I can play strong safety or nickel. I can play multiple positions which means I have a high chance of getting on the field.”
Asbury wants to finalize the recruiting process soon. There’s a degree of ambiguity due to the pandemic. “I’ve asked a lot of coaches when I can physically visit. None of them know now. The date I’ve been hearing is June 30th,” he said. “If they do allow visits at that time, I would like to visit a few schools, including Pitt. If I’m unable to do that, then I’ll have to go a different direction.”
“Pitt’s definitely at the top for me right now. I feel like I have been a priority for them. I want to attend a program that values me as a player and man.”
Harry Psaros can be found on Twitter at @PittGuru
