Bryce Stanfield, a defensive tackle for Furman University, tragically passed away on Friday afternoon, just two days after collapsing unexpectedly during a morning workout, announced university president Elizabeth Davis in a letter to the Furman community. He was 21 years old.
Following his collapse, Stanfield was rushed to a local hospital and placed on life support, where he was surrounded by his family and members of the Furman community until his passing, according to Davis.
“We are devastated by Bryce’s sudden departure and urge everyone to prioritize supporting his parents, Fred and Teri Stanfield, and their family, during this difficult time and in the days to come,” expressed Clay Hendrix, coach of the Furman football team, in a statement.
Stanfield’s on-field contributions were significant, with 2.5 sacks to his name, contributing to the team’s total of 38 sacks, which stands as the second-highest in Furman program history. His efforts aided the Paladins in clinching a Southern Conference championship and advancing to the quarterfinals of the FCS playoffs.
Throughout his three seasons with the Paladins, Stanfield participated in 35 games, accumulating 49 career tackles and seven sacks.
In recognition of his academic achievements, Stanfield was honored alongside eight other teammates by being named to the 2023 College Sports Communicators Academic All-District Team, as well as the Southern Conference Fall Academic Team.
He harbored aspirations of attending dental school after completing his undergraduate studies, as noted by Davis.
Furman University posthumously awarded Stanfield his bachelor’s degree, magna cum laude, in a modest private ceremony held on Friday morning, according to Davis.
Additionally, Davis assured that the university is offering counseling and support services to aid other members of the Furman football team during this challenging time.
