CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Monmouth University running back Jaden Shirden agreed to contract terms with the Carolina Panthers at the conclusion of the 2024 National Football League draft.

Shirden joins the NFL following an electric career at Monmouth in which he totaled 3,697 career rushing yards and 26 touchdowns, including 14 touchdowns of at least 50 yards. The speedster set Monmouth's program record with an average of 7.3 yards per attempt and ranks third in school history in rushing. In 33 career games, Shirden went over the 100-yard mark 17 times, including a program-record six 200-yard performances.

"I am beyond grateful for this opportunity to join the Carolina Panthers organization," Shirden said. "I am looking forward to getting to Charlotte and achieving success at the next level. I want to thank everyone who helped me get to this point, including my teammates, coaches and trainers, for all of their support."

Following the 2023 season, Shirden was named the inaugural recipient of the Walter Camp Foundation FCS Player of the Year after he was a unanimous All-American selection. The two-time CAA Offensive Player of the Year ended the 2023 regular season as the nation's leading rusher for the second consecutive season. Shirden also finished third in the Walter Payton Award voting in each of the past two seasons.

Prior to the draft, Shirden participated in the 99th annual East-West Shrine Bowl in Frisco, Texas as well as the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. Shirden is represented by Rosenhaus Sports Representation ("RSR"). At the combine, Shirden ran a 4.45 40-yard dash and led all running backs with a 1.51 second 10-yard split. Shirden is the second Monmouth running back to sign an NFL contract in as many years, joining Baltimore Ravens' back Owen Wright.

Follow Shirden on Twitter at @shirden_20 and on Instagram at @jrock__20