Western Kentucky University football found a bright spot to celebrate on Monday when tight end Noah Meyers was officially named to the prestigious Shrine Bowl 1000 Watchlist, an announcement made by the East-West Shrine Bowl. For Meyers, a dynamic and quietly dependable force on the Hilltoppers’ roster, this recognition signifies more than just personal accolades—it underscores his increasing value and visibility within the national college football landscape. The Shrine Bowl 1000 Watchlist includes players from across all divisions of college football who are considered by professional scouts and analysts to have the potential to play in the NFL or other professional football leagues. To be named among this group places Meyers in the company of elite talent and represents a significant vote of confidence in his work ethic, consistency, and performance on the field.
The East-West Shrine Bowl itself is the longest-running college football all-star game in the country, having served as a proving ground for NFL hopefuls since its inception in 1925. Over the years, countless college athletes have used the platform to transition into professional careers, and the Watchlist serves as the first step in that journey for many. For Meyers to be named this early in the evaluation process speaks volumes about the respect he commands among those scouting the next wave of talent. It’s not just about numbers or flashy highlights—it’s about complete football players, and that’s where Meyers truly shines.
Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing in at over 240 pounds, Meyers is the prototype for what NFL teams now seek in modern tight ends. He has the versatility to block like an offensive lineman and the athleticism to run routes and catch passes like a wide receiver. This hybrid skill set has become increasingly valuable in both collegiate and professional schemes, and it’s one of the reasons Meyers has started to attract national attention. His ability to create mismatches in coverage, especially against linebackers and safeties, makes him a weapon in the passing game. But he’s also tenacious in the trenches, doing the dirty work on run plays and helping to anchor an offensive unit that prides itself on balance.
WKU has long been known for producing offensive playmakers, especially in the passing game. From quarterbacks like Bailey Zappe to receivers like Taywan Taylor, the Hilltoppers have carved out a reputation for high-octane offense. Meyers, while perhaps less flashy than some of his predecessors, brings a level of consistency and leadership that has made him a cornerstone of the current roster. His inclusion on the Shrine Bowl 1000 Watchlist is a nod not only to his individual performance but to the program’s continued ability to develop NFL-caliber talent.
Coaches around the WKU program have often spoken highly of Meyers’ football IQ, his ability to read defensive schemes, and his unselfishness. He’s been known to stay after practice for extra reps, work with younger players on technique, and immerse himself in film study. These are the intangibles that don’t always show up on stat sheets but are frequently cited by scouts when evaluating potential pro prospects. The Shrine Bowl Watchlist is populated with players who not only dominate between the whistles but who also bring professionalism and maturity to every aspect of the game—qualities that Meyers seems to possess in abundance.
The 2024 season will now serve as a crucial chapter in Meyers’ journey. With his name officially attached to the Shrine Bowl 1000 Watchlist, there will be added attention from NFL scouts and media alike. Every snap he plays will be scrutinized just a little more closely, every reception, block, and route a part of a larger audition for the next level. But if there’s pressure involved, Meyers doesn’t seem to show it. Those around the program describe him as even-keeled, focused, and driven more by team success than personal glory. That mindset could serve him well in the coming months as he navigates the dual role of team leader and pro prospect.
Western Kentucky’s offensive scheme, known for its creativity and emphasis on spreading the field, puts tight ends in a unique position to showcase their full skill sets. For Meyers, that has meant opportunities to line up in various formations—from in-line tight end to H-back to even the occasional slot role. The diversity of usage will be an asset as he builds a body of work for pro evaluators. Already, there have been murmurs that multiple NFL franchises have taken early interest, attending WKU practices or requesting additional film. These quiet signs of interest only reinforce what the Shrine Bowl Watchlist already suggests: Noah Meyers is a name worth knowing in the football world.
Beyond the gridiron, Meyers has also demonstrated strong character and leadership in the WKU locker room and community. Whether it’s mentoring younger players or representing the university in outreach events, he’s proven to be the kind of ambassador programs love to promote. That broader impact isn’t lost on the selection committee for the Shrine Bowl, which evaluates both on-field performance and off-field conduct in its decisions. Meyers’ nomination suggests he checks every box.
For WKU, this recognition could have ripple effects. Players like Meyers raising the program’s national profile can impact everything from recruiting to scheduling. When NFL scouts start showing up on campus to watch one player, they often discover others. That kind of exposure helps build sustained success. Meyers’ moment, therefore, is also a moment for the Hilltoppers as a whole.
Looking ahead, the path to the East-West Shrine Bowl remains competitive. Being named to the Watchlist is just the first step in what will be a season-long evaluation process. Players will be added and removed as the year progresses, and performance under the bright lights of fall football will ultimately determine who earns an invitation to the game. But for now, Meyers has done everything right. He’s put himself on the radar, and now the next chapter is his to write.
As fall camp continues and the Hilltoppers prepare for their upcoming schedule, all eyes will be on Meyers—not just in Bowling Green but across the country. Whether it’s third-and-short or red zone situations, whether it’s blocking an edge rusher or hauling in a clutch touchdown, Meyers will have plenty of opportunities to prove that the Shrine Bowl committee got this one right. And if his past is any indication, he’ll seize those opportunities with the same workmanlike approach that got him here in the first place.
In a college football era dominated by flash and flair, it’s sometimes the dependable grinders who end up making the biggest splash at the next level. Noah Meyers, now on the Shrine Bowl 1000 Watchlist, looks every bit the part of one of those players. With his size, skill, intelligence, and heart, he may very well be on his way from Hilltopper standout to Sunday contributor. For now, WKU and its fans can celebrate the recognition of one of their own—a tight end with a future worth watching, and a present worth cheering.
