This past week and a half have been full of mourning for the Southern Conference. On Feb. 9, Furman defensive tackle Bryce Stanfield died unexpectedly after collapsing during a workout. A day earlier, on Feb. 8, Samford Football also lost one of their most beloved players, Chris Shelling.
Shelling played as a wide receiver for Samford from 2016 to 2019. He was a key contributor to the Bulldog passing attack, as he racked up 2,146 career receiving yards for the Bulldogs. He also provided legendary performances, like having 245 receiving yards against Western Carolina in 2017 and a 185-yard, 4 touchdown effort against Tennessee Tech in 2019.
Samford Football released a statement on Shelling’s passing, saying “The Bulldogs are heartbroken by the passing of former wide receiver Chris Shelling. Our hearts are with Chris’ family, teammates, and all who knew him.”
Before coming to Samford, Shelling lived in Lawrenceville, Georgia, and graduated from Central Gwinnett High School. Twice, he was named All-County and Player of the Month for CGHS. Shelling played on the prep team for Army at West Point in 2015 before transferring to Samford, where he majored in health sciences.
Shelling became a steady pass catcher as he progressed, catching 177 passes in his three years as a regular starter. His ability to stretch the field was exceptional, as he averaged over ten yards per catch in his three starting years. Alongside two-time All-American Kelvin McKnight, Shelling formed a dangerous tandem that enhanced a potent Air Raid offense.
Samford President Beck Taylor offered his condolences to both the Shelling and Stanfield families.
“A very sad day for the SoCon football family,” Taylor said. “Our hearts go out to the Furman and Samford programs.”
