- Stanfield experienced a medical emergency during practice on Wednesday.
- Tackle Furman had dealt with a back issue that limited what he could do.
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College football player Bryce Stanfield, a Furman defensive tackle, died Friday, two days after collapsing during practice at the age of 21.
Furman President Elizabeth Davis said Stanfield died while “surrounded by his family and his Furman family.”
Stanfield experienced a medical emergency during a practice at Paladin Stadium on Wednesday and the school said he was taken to Greenville (SC) Memorial Hospital and placed on life support. Details of the emergency have not been revealed.
“We are heartbroken beyond measure by 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 to come,” said Furman coach, Clay Hendrix, in a statement.
“There are many more who are truly suffering, namely Bryce’s teammates, coaches and staff, classmates, friends and the entire Furman community and beyond.”
College football player Bryce Stanfield, Furman defensive tackle, died Friday
The 21-year-old reportedly died while “surrounded by his family and his Furman family.”
Stanfield experienced a medical emergency during a workout at Paladin Stadium on Wednesday.
Stanfield had dealt with a back problem that limited what he could do before training began, according to Carolina Fox.
However, he was undergoing rehab to deal with the injury and the coaching staff was reportedly unaware of any other medical issues.
Davis said the health sciences student from Acworth, Georgia, excelled both in the classroom and on the football field.
In fact, the university awarded the degree to Stanfield in a ceremony the Friday morning before he passed away so that he could die as a Furman graduate. Davis said Stanfield received a bachelor of science degree and graduated magna cum laude.
The entire football team was allowed in their hospital room for the private ceremony.
“The university extends its deepest condolences to Bryce’s family and friends at this time of profound loss,” Davis said in a letter to the Furman community. ‘The entire Furman community is deeply affected in times like these, and it is important that we offer each other support and seek help if we need it.
‘We have connected with the football team and others who knew Bryce most closely to provide advice and support. “We will share information about funerals and memorial services as appropriate.”
Stanfield played in 34 games over three seasons for the Paladins and had 49 tackles and 9.5 stops for losses, including seven sacks.
The school reportedly plans to announce plans for a memorial service at a later date.