Last Updated on October 26, 2026 by Mariah Miranda
Drew Shelton is an American football offensive tackle for the Dallas Cowboys of the National Football League (NFL). Born Andrew King Shelton on December 26, 2003, he grew up in Downingtown, Pennsylvania, before becoming a standout offensive lineman at Penn State University.
Beyond his professional football career, Drew Shelton is the son of Sarah King, a former college basketball player who competed at Aquinas College. He also has a younger sister named Ryan, who played an unusual role in his football recruitment by helping him practice blocking drills during the COVID-19 pandemic.
His mother and sister have been important figures throughout his athletic journey. In fact, one of the reasons Shelton committed to Penn State was that the university was close enough to home for them to attend his games.
Although Shelton has shared some information about his family, he has maintained considerable privacy regarding his father, romantic relationships, and whether he has children.
Here is everything publicly known about Drew Shelton’s family, including his girlfriend, children, parents, siblings, and personal background.
Drew Shelton’s Girlfriend: Is He Currently Dating Anyone?
As of now, Drew Shelton has not publicly confirmed the identity of a current girlfriend.
The Dallas Cowboys offensive tackle has generally kept his romantic relationships outside the public spotlight, with most interviews focusing on his football career, family, education, and transition to the NFL.
His official Penn State biography provides details about his mother, sister, athletic interests, and personal ambitions but does not identify a romantic partner.
Similarly, coverage published by the Dallas Cowboys following his selection in the 2026 NFL Draft does not establish whether he is currently dating anyone.
Although Shelton maintains social media accounts, there is insufficient reliable public reporting to identify a particular person as his girlfriend.
However, the absence of publicly confirmed information does not necessarily mean Shelton is single. His current relationship status remains private.
Is Drew Shelton Married?
As of now, Drew Shelton has not publicly confirmed being married.
There is no verified announcement identifying a wife, engagement, or wedding ceremony involving the Cowboys rookie offensive tackle.
His official university and NFL biographies do not establish a marriage.
Consequently, claims about a wife or wedding should not be treated as established facts without additional reliable confirmation.
Drew Shelton’s Children: Does He Have Any Kids?
As of now, Drew Shelton has no publicly confirmed children.
The Dallas Cowboys offensive lineman has not made a verified announcement identifying himself as the father of a son or daughter.
Most public information about Shelton’s family focuses on his mother, Sarah King, and younger sister, Ryan.
Although he has discussed his desire to help young athletes through community programs, that interest does not establish that he has children of his own.
Therefore, any claims that Shelton is a father would require reliable public confirmation.
Drew Shelton’s Parents: Who Are His Father and Mother?
Drew Shelton’s most publicly documented parent is his mother, Sarah King.
Her identity is confirmed by Penn State University’s official athletics biography, which identifies Shelton as her son and documents her college basketball background.
The university biography does not identify Shelton’s father.
While some online articles discuss his parents generally, the authoritative sources reviewed provide considerably more information about his mother than his father.
Drew Shelton’s Mother: Sarah King
Sarah King is Drew Shelton’s mother and a former college basketball player.
According to Penn State Athletics, she played basketball at Aquinas College in Michigan from 1996 to 1998.
Her experience competing at the college level established an athletic connection within the family before Drew developed into a nationally recognized football prospect.
Sarah has been involved in supporting her son’s development, particularly during the recruiting process that eventually brought him to Penn State.
When Shelton began attracting interest from major college football programs, he considered several opportunities across the United States.
However, remaining within traveling distance of his family became an important part of his decision.
In September 2020, Shelton explained that choosing Penn State would allow his mother and sister to attend games and return home the same evening.
The decision demonstrated the value he placed on maintaining a close connection with his family while pursuing his athletic ambitions.
How Sarah King Supported Drew Shelton’s College Recruitment
Drew Shelton became one of Pennsylvania’s most highly recruited offensive linemen while attending Downingtown West High School.
He received scholarship offers from several leading college football programs, including Michigan, Notre Dame, Oklahoma, Florida, Oregon, and Penn State.
His recruitment became particularly challenging during the COVID-19 pandemic, when college visits and traditional recruiting activities were restricted.
In a September 2020 interview, Shelton explained that his relationship with Penn State’s coaches influenced his final decision.
He also emphasized the importance of the university’s location.
Staying close to home would make it easier for Sarah and his younger sister Ryan to continue supporting him in person.
After announcing his commitment, Shelton maintained his relationship with the program and enrolled at Penn State in 2022.
His mother’s own experience in collegiate athletics adds an interesting dimension to the family’s sporting background.
Drew Shelton’s Father: What Is Known?
As of now, the identity of Drew Shelton’s father has not been reliably established through his official Penn State biography or authoritative family interviews.
Penn State Athletics specifically identifies his mother, Sarah King, and sister, Ryan, without providing a corresponding name for his father.
Some secondary online profiles acknowledge the absence of public information about his father, but they do not establish his identity, occupation, or involvement in Drew’s upbringing.
Importantly, the lack of available information should not be interpreted as evidence that his father was absent or that any particular family circumstances existed.
Shelton appears to have chosen to keep that part of his personal life private.
Drew Shelton’s Siblings: Does He Have Brothers and Sisters?
Drew Shelton has one publicly confirmed younger sister named Ryan.
Her identity is documented in his official Penn State football biography and independently supported by reporting from The Philadelphia Inquirer.
The university’s records do not identify additional brothers or sisters.
However, this does not necessarily establish that Ryan is his only biological or half-sibling.
Ryan Shelton – Drew Shelton’s Younger Sister
Ryan is Drew Shelton’s younger sister and one of the most interesting figures in his early football story.
Although she has generally maintained a private life, she became part of an unusual recruiting anecdote shared by former Penn State head coach James Franklin.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Shelton needed ways to demonstrate his offensive line abilities to college coaches despite restrictions affecting organized practices and recruiting visits.
He began practicing blocking techniques at home, using his younger sister as a training partner.
According to Franklin, some of the earliest footage Penn State received of Shelton showed him performing pass-blocking drills against Ryan in their backyard.
During a November 2022 press conference, Franklin recalled watching the footage and explained that Ryan had performed well enough to win some of the practice repetitions.
The story attracted attention because it demonstrated both Shelton’s creativity during the recruiting process and his sister’s willingness to help.
Ryan Shelton’s Athletic Background
Ryan also demonstrated athletic ability during her school years.
According to reporting published in November 2022, James Franklin described her as approximately six feet two inches tall.
He also indicated that she had attracted interest involving a volleyball scholarship opportunity.
However, the available reporting does not establish which college, if any, she eventually attended on a volleyball scholarship.
Her involvement in Drew’s backyard football drills suggests that she was comfortable participating in physical athletic activities.
Although Ryan’s public profile is much smaller than her brother’s, she has an unusual connection to the beginning of his college football career.
How Drew Shelton’s Sister Helped Him Reach Penn State
In November 2022, Penn State coach James Franklin discussed Shelton’s unusual recruitment during a weekly press conference.
Franklin explained that restrictions during the pandemic had forced coaches to evaluate prospects using limited footage.
One of the videos the staff received showed Shelton practicing offensive tackle techniques against Ryan.
Despite the unconventional training arrangement, the footage helped demonstrate Shelton’s size, footwork, and technical development.
The coaching staff eventually recruited him as a four-star offensive tackle.
The story later became a memorable example of how athletes and their families adapted during a difficult recruiting period.
Ryan’s participation is one of the clearest documented examples of family involvement in Shelton’s football development.
Does Drew Shelton Have a Brother?
As of now, no brother of Drew Shelton has been reliably identified through official Penn State or Dallas Cowboys biographies.
His publicly documented sibling is his younger sister Ryan.
It would therefore be inaccurate to identify additional siblings without authoritative reporting.
Drew Shelton’s Family Connection to Penn State Quarterback Drew Allar
One of the more unusual family connections involving Drew Shelton concerns his friendship with former Penn State quarterback Drew Allar.
The two players became close friends after joining Penn State’s 2022 recruiting class.
In a January 2025 interview with The Philadelphia Inquirer, Allar recalled that his family and Shelton’s family became acquainted early in their college football journeys.
He also revealed an interesting coincidence: both players have younger sisters named Ryan.
Allar explained that the unusual similarity helped their families connect.
He and Shelton subsequently developed a close friendship, sharing a home with fellow offensive lineman Dominic Rulli during their college careers.
Their relationship continued on the field, with Shelton protecting Allar as Penn State’s starting left tackle.
Although Allar and Shelton are not publicly established as biological relatives, their friendship demonstrates the close relationships they developed through college football.
Drew Shelton’s Childhood and Family Background
Drew Shelton was born on December 26, 2003, and grew up in Downingtown, Pennsylvania, a community in Chester County near Philadelphia.
He developed an interest in athletics at a young age, participating in football, basketball, and baseball.
His mother’s background as a college basketball player provided a direct family connection to competitive sports.
Shelton began his high school football career at Downingtown West, where he initially played tight end.
However, coaches recognized that his height, athleticism, and developing physical strength made him an excellent candidate for offensive tackle.
He eventually transitioned to the offensive line and began attracting attention from major college football recruiters.
Drew Shelton’s Time at IMG Academy
During his high school years, Shelton temporarily attended IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida.
He spent his junior year there, focusing on football development and competing in a nationally recognized training environment.
The move provided access to high-level coaching, athletic conditioning, and competition against some of the country’s leading prospects.
However, Shelton returned to Pennsylvania for his senior year at Downingtown West.
In a February 2022 interview with The Philadelphia Inquirer, he discussed the decision and explained that he wanted to enjoy his final high school season with familiar teammates.
He also returned to the basketball court, contributing to Downingtown West’s successful winter season.
Penn State coach James Franklin encouraged Shelton to continue playing basketball as a way to maintain his athletic conditioning before beginning college football.
The experience allowed him to remain involved in multiple sports while preparing for his future at Penn State.
How Drew Shelton’s Family Influenced His College Decision
In September 2020, Drew Shelton announced his commitment to Penn State University.
He selected the Nittany Lions after considering offers from more than twenty major college football programs.
His decision was influenced by his relationship with offensive line coach Phil Trautwein, head coach James Franklin, and other members of the coaching staff.
However, family considerations were also important.
Shelton wanted his mother and sister to continue attending his football games without traveling excessively far from home.
Penn State’s location in Pennsylvania made that possible.
He also appreciated the opportunity to represent his home state while pursuing college football at a nationally recognized program.
His decision demonstrated that proximity to family could be an important factor even for a highly recruited athlete with opportunities across the country.
Drew Shelton’s College Football Career at Penn State
Drew Shelton joined the Penn State Nittany Lions football program in 2022.
He initially expected to spend his freshman season developing physically and learning the team’s offensive system.
However, an injury to starting left tackle Olu Fashanu created an opportunity for him to play earlier than anticipated.
Shelton stepped into the starting lineup during the final portion of the 2022 season.
His performances impressed the coaching staff and helped Penn State complete a successful campaign.
During the 2023 season, he contributed as a reserve offensive lineman and continued developing his technique.
He also gained experience playing multiple offensive line positions.
His role increased significantly in 2024, when he became Penn State’s starting left tackle.
He started all 16 games that season and earned honorable mention All-Big Ten recognition.
Penn State reached the College Football Playoff semifinal after victories over SMU and Boise State.
Shelton returned for his senior season in 2025 and started all 12 games.
He again earned honorable mention All-Big Ten recognition and Academic All-Big Ten honors.
Over his four-year college career, Shelton developed into an experienced offensive lineman known for his footwork, athleticism, and versatility.
He completed his Penn State career with 34 starts before declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft.
Drew Shelton’s Education and Community Involvement
In addition to football, Drew Shelton demonstrated an interest in education and helping young athletes.
His official Penn State biography lists business administration among his academic interests.
He also participated in youth football summer camps at Downingtown West and served on the Student-Athlete Leadership Council.
According to his university biography, Shelton hoped to use his professional athletic platform to create opportunities for children from disadvantaged backgrounds to participate in sports.
His involvement in youth programs reflects an interest in contributing to the same sporting community that helped him develop.
These activities also provide insight into his interests beyond the football field.
Drew Shelton’s NFL Career With the Dallas Cowboys
Drew Shelton entered the 2026 NFL Draft following four seasons with Penn State.
The Dallas Cowboys selected him in the fourth round with the 112th overall pick on April 25, 2026.
The selection made him one of the offensive linemen Dallas added as part of its efforts to strengthen the team’s depth and develop future starters.
The Cowboys valued his athleticism, footwork, and experience playing offensive tackle.
Following the draft, Shelton expressed excitement about joining the organization and competing at the professional level.
His familiarity with Dallas also helped his transition.
Before the draft, he trained in the Dallas area with offensive line specialist Duke Manyweather, working alongside experienced NFL players.
During those preparations, Shelton had opportunities to learn from established professional offensive linemen, including Cowboys tackle Terence Steele.
He also reunited with Tyler Booker, whom he had previously known during their high school football years.
In May 2026, the Cowboys began evaluating Shelton at multiple offensive line positions.
Although he had played primarily offensive tackle at Penn State, the coaching staff wanted to explore his potential versatility at guard.
By July 2026, DallasCowboys.com described him as a young lineman capable of competing at different positions along the offensive line.
As of now, Shelton is listed on the Dallas Cowboys’ roster as an offensive tackle wearing jersey number 67.
His arrival in the NFL represents the realization of an ambition he pursued throughout his childhood and college career.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drew Shelton’s Family
Who is Drew Shelton’s girlfriend?
As of now, Drew Shelton has not publicly confirmed having a girlfriend. His current relationship status remains private.
Is Drew Shelton married?
There is no reliable public confirmation that Drew Shelton is married or has a wife.
Does Drew Shelton have children?
As of now, Drew Shelton has no publicly confirmed children. He has not made a verified announcement identifying himself as a father.
Who are Drew Shelton’s parents?
Drew Shelton’s mother is Sarah King, a former college basketball player. His father’s identity has not been reliably established through official university biographies.
Who is Drew Shelton’s mother?
His mother is Sarah King, who played basketball at Aquinas College in Michigan from 1996 to 1998.
Who is Drew Shelton’s father?
As of now, the name and personal background of Drew Shelton’s father have not been confirmed through authoritative public reporting.
Does Drew Shelton have siblings?
Yes. Drew Shelton has a younger sister named Ryan, according to Penn State University’s official football biography.
Who is Drew Shelton’s sister?
His younger sister is Ryan. She helped him practice blocking drills during the COVID-19 recruiting period, and Penn State coaches received footage of the two practicing in their backyard.
Does Drew Shelton have a brother?
No brother has been publicly confirmed through the authoritative sources reviewed. His only publicly identified sibling is Ryan.
Did Drew Shelton’s mother play college basketball?
Yes. Sarah King played basketball at Aquinas College from 1996 to 1998, according to Penn State Athletics.
Is Drew Shelton related to Drew Allar?
No biological family relationship has been publicly established between Drew Shelton and Drew Allar. They were Penn State teammates and close friends whose younger sisters both happen to be named Ryan.
Where is Drew Shelton from?
Drew Shelton is from Downingtown, Pennsylvania. He attended Downingtown West High School and spent his junior year at IMG Academy in Florida.
Where did Drew Shelton play college football?
Drew Shelton played college football at Penn State University from 2022 to 2025.
When was Drew Shelton drafted?
The Dallas Cowboys selected Drew Shelton with the 112th overall pick in the fourth round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
What NFL team does Drew Shelton play for?
As of now, Drew Shelton plays offensive tackle for the Dallas Cowboys, wearing jersey number 67.
Mariah Miranda is a dedicated sports journalist specializing in comprehensive NFL coverage, playbook strategy, and team analytics. From offseason Draft planning and free-agency moves to weekly matchup breakdowns and playoff pushes, she delivers clear, data-driven analysis of every division in the league. Driven by a deep understanding of football tactics and locker-room dynamics, Mariah brings fans closer to the gridiron with sharp commentary and player updates.
