Dakoda Shepley Bio
Dakoda Shepley is a Canadian professional football offensive tackle for the Dallas Cowboys of the National Football League. Shepley played university football at the University of British Columbia, where he started as a four-year player. In the NFL, he has had stints with several teams, including the New York Jets and the Saskatchewan Roughriders, before finally signing with the Cowboys. Known for his strong presence on the field, Shepley continues to work toward solidifying his career in professional football.
Early Life and Background
Dakoda Shepley was born on December 27, 1994, in Windsor, Ontario, Canada. He attended Holy Names High School in Windsor, where he initially focused on ice hockey. His journey into football began after he suffered a broken hand during his sophomore season, which led him to explore the sport. Shepley later enrolled at the University of British Columbia, where he was redshirted in 2013. He became a four-year starter, playing both right tackle and right guard. His contributions to the team were significant, as he helped lead them to a Vanier Cup championship during his sophomore year and earned a Canada West All-Star selection at right tackle in his senior year.
Path to American Football
After completing his college career, Dakoda Shepley entered the professional football scene. He was signed as an undrafted free agent by the New York Jets on May 4, 2018, following the NFL draft. Although he participated in training camp and played in three preseason games, he was released by the Jets on August 31, 2018. Shortly after, Shepley was selected by the Saskatchewan Roughriders with the fifth overall pick in the 2018 CFL draft. He signed a two-year deal with the Roughriders in March 2019 and made his CFL debut on June 13, 2019, against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, starting 14 games as a rookie and earning the title of Most Outstanding Rookie for the team.
Dakoda Shepley Career
Early Career (2018–2020)
Dakoda Shepley’s professional career began with the New York Jets, where he was signed as an undrafted free agent in 2018. After his brief stint with the Jets, he joined the Saskatchewan Roughriders, where he made a significant impact in his rookie season. He played in 14 games and was recognized as the team’s Most Outstanding Rookie. However, the 2020 CFL season was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leading Shepley to opt out of his contract with the Roughriders.
Breakthrough (2020–Present)
In August 2020, Dakoda Shepley signed with the San Francisco 49ers. He was initially waived but later signed to their practice squad, where he was elevated to the active roster for a couple of games in December 2020. After being waived by the 49ers in August 2021, he was claimed off waivers by the Seattle Seahawks, where he played in eight games during the regular season. Shepley’s journey continued with the Dallas Cowboys, who signed him to their practice squad in September 2022. He was promoted to the active roster in January 2023, but was waived shortly after. In January 2023, he was claimed off waivers by the Indianapolis Colts, only to return to the Cowboys later that year.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Dakoda Shepley has established himself as a reliable offensive tackle. His notable achievements include being named the Most Outstanding Rookie with the Saskatchewan Roughriders and his contributions to various teams in the NFL. He continues to strive for success in his professional football career.
Dakoda Shepley Award Nominations
Dakoda Shepley has not received any formal award nominations during his professional career thus far.
Dakoda Shepley Awards Won
Throughout his career, Dakoda Shepley has achieved recognition as the Most Outstanding Rookie while playing for the Saskatchewan Roughriders, marking a significant milestone in his early professional career.
Dakoda Shepley Family
There is limited public information available regarding Dakoda Shepley’s family background, including details about his parents or siblings.
Personal Life
Dakoda Shepley has also ventured into acting, portraying Omega Red in the film Deadpool 2. Additionally, he served as a stunt and body double in the Netflix film Game Over, Man!.