The story of his father, Heath Shuler, is well known around WNC and the nation.
Before he became a U.S. representative for North Carolina’s 11th congressional district from 2007-13, Heath was an NFL quarterback – drafted third overall in 1994 by the Washington Redskins – where he played for three seasons. He played one season for the New Orleans Saints, but retired the next year due to a lingering foot injury.
Heath is noted as one of the best quarterbacks in history at the University of Tennessee and came in second place in the 1993 Heisman Trophy voting behind Charlie Ward.
“It’s been interesting growing up in a household where everyone knows who your dad is,” Navy said. “There are expectations that come with it, but it’s something I’ve gotten used to. I just try to ignore it and go out and play.”
Making a name for himself in the Shuler family is even more difficult for Navy, given the unusual appellations of the rest of his family. His sister’s name is Island. Two of his cousins are named Manhattan and Crew, respectively. Another cousin, West Shuler, plays alongside him at Christ School, and filled in at the quarterback position while he was injured.
“We’ve got a real nautical theme going on,” Heath said, laughing.
But college coaches have already taken note of Navy’s talent and potential. He wears a size 14 shoe and figures to grow several more inches before he graduates in three years. He’s recently taken unofficial visits to Division I colleges, including Tennessee earlier this year and North Carolina this Saturday.
“I told the Tennessee coaches, don’t recruit him because he’s my son. Do it because he’s good,” said Heath, the running backs coach at Christ School. “He’s so young, he’s going to grow and get stronger. But it’s his mental aptitude that I think has excited college coaches.”
