Reports: An Alabama football player who died after being critically injured has been remembered at a memorial service

Memorial for Caden Tellier: A Talented Athlete Remembered

SELMA, Ala. — A memorial service held on Monday honored Caden Tellier, a 16-year-old quarterback from Morgan Academy, who tragically died after sustaining critical injuries during a football game. He was remembered as a compassionate and skilled athlete who achieved a great deal in his young life.

Tellier passed away on Saturday following an injury from a game against Southern Academy on Friday night, suffering a brain injury, as reported by the Alabama Independent School Association.

Students, parents, and teachers, dressed in the school’s maroon and gold colors, came together at the memorial and prayer service in the gymnasium. Family members occupied the front row during the service.

“There has been an outpouring of love from everyone here and from people across the country,” said Jamie Tellier, Caden’s father, addressing the gathered community.

“I could tell you much about who my son was,” he continued. “He was an exceptional athlete, but what he loved most was talking about Jesus.”

Tellier reassured the school’s football players that Caden’s spirit would remain with them, stating, “Caden wouldn’t want me to stop doing things.”

Despite his short life, Tellier’s father expressed pride in his son’s many accomplishments and love. His grandmother, Dale Dobbs, shared that Caden, the second oldest of nine cousins, always made time for the youngest, recently teaching his 4-year-old cousin how to throw a baseball.

“He would drop everything to help us, and he never wanted payment for his work,” she recalled.

Outside the school, a memorial was set up in the student parking lot with flowers, balloons representing his jersey number 17, and chalk messages such as “Miss U Buddy” inside a heart.

The recent tragedy highlights concerns about injuries in tackle football at all levels, prompting families to weigh the risks against potential benefits.

Caden’s parents announced his death via social media, sharing that he would continue to save lives through organ donation. Morgan Academy Headmaster Bryan Oliver confirmed this to al.com.

“Everyone who knew Caden experienced his kindness and generosity. True to his nature, he is giving one last time, touching lives even in his passing,” his parents wrote.

In light of the tragedy, the school has decided to suspend all sports activities for the week, including this Friday’s football game at Wilcox Academy.

“The focus is not on the injury, but on the love we had for Caden and his love for the Lord,” Oliver said.