Furman standout DL Bryce Stanfield died after suffering a medical emergency at practice

Today at an early morning practice, Bryce Stanfield a standout defensive tackle suffered a medical emergency, and did not survive. He was just 21 years old.

Stanfield, from Acworth, Georgia was a three-year letterman for the Paladins, he saw action in all 13 games this past fall, totaling 13 tackles, including four tackles for-loss and 2.5 sacks, in the Paladins’ 10-3, Southern Conference championship campaign.

His coach Clay Hendrix released this statement:

“We are heartbroken beyond measure with Bryce’s sudden passing and ask that everyone, first and foremost, lift up his parents, Fred and Teri Stanfield, and their family, in prayer on this day and in the days ahead,” said Furman head coach Clay Hendrix.  

“There are so many more who are really hurting — namely Bryce’s teammates, coaches and staff, classmates, friends, and the entire Furman community and beyond,” Hendrix added  “Bryce was an outstanding young man and an equally fine student, football player, and friend.  He was so much a part of who we are as a program and school, and was pivotal in our success on the football field and through giving of his time in outreach to our community. In every sense he was the best representative we could have.  His passing is one of the most difficult things Furman football has ever encountered, but our faith and so many wonderful memories Bryce provided us will help sustain us all in the days ahead.”   

Stanfield was two-time SoCon Academic Honor Roll selection and was recently named to both the 2023 SoCon Fall All-Academic Team and College Sports Communicators Academic All-District squad.

Please keep his family in your prayers.