A.Q. Shipley Joins Colts On Future/Reserve Deal
It’s been a while, but former Rimington Award winner A.Q. Shipley is finally back in the NFL.
On Saturday, the 25-year-old center signed with the Indianapolis Colts on a future/reserve contract, which reserves him a spot on the team throughout the offseason. He’ll be able to learn under one of the best centers in the league in 5-time Pro Bowler Jeff Saturday.
Shipley had a similar arrangement last offseason with the Philadelphia Eagles, but failed to make the opening day roster despite mostly positive reviews from training camp. He had originally been drafted by the Steelers in the 7th round of the 2009 draft, but he only ended up spending one season on their practice squad before being cut. Both teams had originially signed Shipley to 3-year deals. Maybe leaving Pennsylvania will do some good for him. Not to mention, he’ll have the opportunity to develop a relationship with Andrew Luck that could end up being like the Jeff Saturday-Peyton Manning relationship. (Wishful thinking?)
You probably don’t need to be reminded, but in case you do, here’s a quick recap of awards and recognitions Shipley received in his senior season at Penn State:
- Dave Rimington Award winner (Nation’s top center)
- 1st Team All-American (By a variety of outlets including ESPN, FWAA)
- Big Ten Offensive Lineman of the Year
- First Team All-Big Ten
Fun fact: A.Q. is short for Allan Quay
