Shepler Fights for Starting Special Teams Roles at Liberty

Fellowship Christian School graduate Clay Shepler enters summer camp wanting to make an impact on the Liberty University football team.

“I played in a few games last fall, and I my goal is to earn a starting role on all four special teams’ units [kickoff, kickoff return, punt and punt return],” said Shepler, who enters his senior year academically and his third year with the football team this fall. “I am also competing for the starting field goal holder role. I am willing to do everything it takes to help the team on and off the field. I need to be on the field to be able to travel with the team and have more opportunities to share my faith. I would love to have more opportunities to give the Glory to the Lord.”

Shepler served as one of 10 team captains during Liberty’s spring practices.

“I received affirmation from the coaches and felt like I played well in spring ball,” Shepler said. “Coach [Jamey] Chadwell has put trust in me since I played last year.”

Shepler, who expects to graduate with his undergraduate degree this spring, will have one more year of football eligibility left following the 2026 season.

“Right now, I am leaning toward going back and playing football one more season and working towards a seminary degree,” he said. “College football is unique. It gives you an opportunity to share your faith, encourage others to have a relationship with Jesus Christ and give back to your school and community.”

It was a tough season for the Flames in 2025. The team, which finished 4-8 overall and 3-5 in Conference USA play, was just two years removed from a 13-win season and undefeated conference record. The 2024 team, Shepler’s first year with the program, was 8-4 and 5-3 in conference play. The Flames finished 13-1 (8-0) in 2023.

“We were right there in a lot of games, but it was a rough year for the program,” Shepler said. “It was a worse record than we’d hoped for. But I think we turned the page quickly and focused on getting better and preparation for spring practice. We are motivated to improve and win.”

Like any other program, the transfer portal and the NIL impacts Liberty.

“It changes cultures of teams, not just rosters,” he said. “We get transfers from Power 4 schools, but we also lose good players too. Since the heartbeat of any team is relational it’s huge to have guys bond quickly and be committed to excellence on the field. We were able to accomplish that this spring. Our new guys are already very connected to our team and are committed to our team’s success.”

The Flames have rallied around Chadwell – 25-13 in three seasons as Liberty head coach – following his January 2026 surgery to treat a medical condition.

“We all had to step up in spring ball,” Shepler said. “What [Chadwell’s surgery] caused was players and coaches stepping into new leadership roles. That resulted in us becoming a deeply connected and relational team. It’s the most connected team I have been a part of.”

Liberty travels to Harrisonburg, Va., to open the season against James Madison on Sept. 5 at noon.

Last season, Shepler’s sister, Sarah Caroline Shepler, was on the sidelines as a freshman cheerleader for the Flames.

(Photos courtesy of Liberty University)