Caden Tellier, a 16-year-old junior quarterback for John T. Morgan Academy in Selma, Alabama, died on Saturday, August 24, 2024 after suffering a brain injury during his team’s season opener against Southern Academy on Friday night. The injury occurred during the third quarter of the game when Tellier was tackled after carrying the football. Morgan Academy eventually won the game, 30-22.
Tellier was airlifted to the University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital but died from his injuries the next day.
The school’s headmaster, Bryan Oliver, confirmed that Tellier suffered a ruptured blood vessel in his brain on what appeared to be a routine play. Oliver’s statement was a heartfelt reflection on the young player’s tragic passing. He expressed deep sorrow for the loss, highlighting Caden’s strong faith and his positive impact on the school community as a student, friend, athlete, and devout Christian.
Oliver also sympathized with Caden’s family and stressed the school’s commitment to supporting them during this difficult time. He acknowledged the outpouring of support from other schools and individuals and stated that Caden’s legacy would never be forgotten.
As a standout athlete, Tellier excelled in both football and baseball. In his sophomore football season, he threw for 1,228 yards with seven touchdowns and four interceptions in eight games. During the baseball season, over 17 games, he batted .311, hit two home runs, drove in 10 runs, and scored 21 times.
Caden’s parents, Arsella Slagel Tellier and Jamie Tellier, shared on Facebook Saturday about their son’s passing. They conveyed that Caden had now met Jesus, thanking everyone for their prayers and asking for continued support in the challenging days ahead.
They added that his kindness, generosity, and love touched those who knew Caden. In keeping with his selfless nature, Caden continued to give, even in death, as his life would now save others through organ donations. His parents noted that they would spend the next few days with his physical body, comforted by the knowledge that his spirit was rejoicing in heaven.
The Tellier family has received an outpouring of support from the local and broader community. A GoFundMe page has been established to help cover medical, life-flight, and funeral expenses. The fundraising effort has generated over $77,000.
Caden Tellier’s passing is a sad reminder of the risks associated with contact sports, particularly football. His death came just nine days after the death of another Alabama high school football player, 14-year-old Semaj Wilkins, who collapsed during practice.