Sterling Shepard Bio
Sterling Clay Shepard is an American professional football wide receiver for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Oklahoma Sooners. Shepard was selected by the New York Giants in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft. Known for his agility and receiving skills, Shepard has made a significant impact in the NFL since his debut, showcasing his talent on the field with numerous receptions and touchdowns throughout his career.
Early Life and Background
Sterling Clay Shepard was born on February 10, 1993, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He attended Heritage Hall School, where he excelled in football, basketball, and track. During his high school football career, Shepard rushed for 1,115 yards and caught 133 passes for 2,335 yards, scoring 38 touchdowns. His impressive performance earned him a spot in the Under Armour All-American Game, highlighting his potential as a future football star. Shepard was recognized as a consensus four-star recruit and committed to the University of Oklahoma to play college football under head coach Bob Stoops.
Path to American Football
At the University of Oklahoma, Sterling Shepard made an immediate impact as a true freshman in 2012, playing in all 13 games and recording 45 receptions for 621 yards and three touchdowns. His collegiate career continued to flourish, with standout performances including a career-high eight receptions for 123 yards and two touchdowns against Tulsa in 2013. By his senior year in 2015, Shepard had established himself as a top receiver, finishing the season with 86 receptions for 1,288 yards and 11 touchdowns. His impressive college statistics and accolades paved the way for his entry into the NFL.
Sterling Shepard Career
Early Career (2016-2020)
Sterling Shepard was drafted by the New York Giants in the second round as the 40th overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft. He signed a four-year contract with the team and quickly became a starting wide receiver alongside Odell Beckham Jr. In his rookie season, Shepard recorded 65 receptions for 683 yards and eight touchdowns, earning a spot on the Pro Football Writers of America NFL All-Rookie Team. His performance helped the Giants secure an 11-5 record and a playoff berth.
Breakthrough (2021-2023)
Throughout his career with the New York Giants, Shepard faced challenges, including injuries that limited his playing time in certain seasons. Despite these setbacks, he consistently demonstrated his skills on the field. In 2021, he finished the season with 36 receptions for 366 yards and one touchdown. After a brief return to the Giants in 2023, Shepard signed a one-year contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in June 2024.
Notable Works and Milestones
Sterling Shepard’s career highlights include being named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2016 and receiving the Disney Spirit Award in 2014. He was also recognized as a First-team All-American in 2015 and earned First-team All-Big 12 honors in 2014 and 2015.
Sterling Shepard Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Sterling Shepard has received several nominations and accolades, including recognition for his outstanding performance during his college years and his rookie season in the NFL.
Sterling Shepard Awards Won
Sterling Shepard has achieved notable awards during his football career, including the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2016 and the Disney Spirit Award in 2014.
Sterling Shepard Family
Sterling Shepard is the son of Derrick Shepard, who played at Oklahoma and in the NFL. Derrick passed away when Sterling was six years old. Sterling has two daughters, Cali Clay Shepard, born in 2018, and Cassie Snow Shepard, born in 2019, from his marriage to model Chanel Iman.
Personal Life
Sterling Shepard married Chanel Iman on March 3, 2018, but the couple announced their divorce in January 2022. He is currently engaged to his long-term girlfriend, Carolyn Estephany. Shepard’s family background in football has influenced his career, and he continues to be a prominent figure in the sport.
