John T. Morgan Academy’s junior quarterback, 16-year-old Caden Tellier, died on Saturday, August 24, 2024, following a brain injury sustained during a football game in Selma, Alabama. The injury happened during the third quarter of the season opener against Southern Academy, where Caden was tackled after a carry. Despite the incident, Morgan Academy managed to secure a 30-22 victory.
Caden was immediately airlifted and admitted to the University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries the following day.
Bryan Oliver, the school’s headmaster, confirmed that Caden suffered from a ruptured blood vessel in his brain during an ordinary play. Oliver expressed profound sadness over the loss, noting Caden’s robust faith and his significant contributions to the school as a student, friend, athlete, and devout Christian.
Oliver also extended his sympathies to Caden’s family and reiterated the school’s pledge to provide them with support during this challenging period. He recognized the overwhelming support from various other schools and individuals, affirming that Caden’s legacy would live on.
As a remarkable athlete, Caden made notable achievements in both football and baseball. In his sophomore football season, he amassed 1,228 yards, seven touchdowns, and four interceptions in just eight games. During his baseball season, over 17 games, Caden boasted a .311 batting average, hit two home runs, drove in 10 runs, and scored 21 times.
Caden’s parents, Arsella Slagel Tellier and Jamie Tellier, posted a heartfelt message on Facebook on Saturday regarding their son’s passing. They expressed gratitude for the prayers and requested continued support for the difficult days ahead, stating that Caden had now met Jesus.
They further highlighted Caden’s kind and generous spirit that left a lasting impact on those who knew him. In line with his selfless personality, Caden’s life will continue to help others through organ donations. The parents stated 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 seen an overwhelming show of support from both the local and broader community. A GoFundMe page has been set up to aid with medical, life-flight, and funeral expenses, which has so far raised over $77,000.
The incident occurred just nine days after the passing of another Alabama high school football player, 14-year-old Semaj Wilkins, who collapsed during a practice session.
