Jeff Shoate was born on March 23, 1981 in San Diego, Calif. … Played both quarterback and defensive back at Serra High School in San Diego … As a senior, was named the Central League’s Offensive Player of the Year after throwing for 505 yards and adding 746 rushing yards while totaling 21 touchdowns … Also lettered in basketball and track and field, earning All-CIF honors as a hurdler … Jeff and his wife, Ronisa, have a son, Jesiah.

Jeff Shoate was signed by the Patriots as a veteran free agent on Aug. 9, 2008 … Originally drafted by the Denver Broncos fifth round (152nd overall) in the 2004 NFL Draft … Waived by the Broncos (9/2/06) … Signed to the Broncos practice squad (9/3/06) … Released by the Broncos (12/4/07) … Signed to the Baltimore Ravens practice squad (12/12/07) … Signed to the New York Giants practice squad during the 2007 playoffs.

• Shoate is in his fourth NFL season in 2008 and entered the year having played in 14 regular-season games, all with the Denver Broncos.
• In 2007, totaled eight tackles (6 solo) with the Broncos.
• As a rookie in 2004, played in seven games with the Broncos, notching three special teams tackles.

2007 (7/0 — Denver): Played in seven games and totaled eight tackles (6 solo) before being released on Dec. 4, 2007 … Signed to the Baltimore Ravens practice squad (12/12/07) … Joined the New York Giants practice squad during the playoffs.

Shoate played at the University of Montana (1999) and finished his college career at San Diego State University (2001-03) … Recorded 157 career tackles (108 solo), seven interceptions (26 yards) 28 passes defensed and five forced fumbles … After playing 11 games as a freshman at Montana, transferred to San Diego State and twice earned All-Mountain West Conference second-team honors (2002-03).