Introduction
Derrick Lathell Shepard (January 22, 1964 – August 4, 1999) was an American football wide receiver in the National Football League for the Washington Redskins, the New Orleans Saints, and the Dallas Cowboys. He played college football at the University of Oklahoma.
Early years
Shepard attended Odessa High School, where he was a wishbone quarterback. As a senior he led his team in rushing.
He walked on at the University of Oklahoma, where he was converted to a wide receiver as a freshman. He was a three-year starter and was a part of the 1985 national championship team. He finished his career with 70 receptions (second in school history), 1,090 receiving yards (fifth in school history) and 596 punt return yards (fourth in school history).
The school's Derrick Shepard Most Inspirational Walk-On Player of the Year award is named in his honor.
Professional career
Washington Redskins
Shepard was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Washington Redskins after the 1987 NFL draft. He played in 7 games over the next 2 years, failing to register a single reception.
New Orleans Saints
Shepard signed with the New Orleans Saints as a Plan B free agent on March 7, 1989. He played in 4 games before being waived on October 3.
Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys claimed him off waivers on October 4, 1989. He was named the starter at wide receiver for the last 8 games of the season and finished with 18 receptions for 268 yards and one touchdown. He would focus on returning punts on special teams in the following years.
He was cut on September 2, 1990, and was later re-signed on September 5. He was released on August 31, 1992, because the team was looking for more speed from the wide receiver position.
Personal life
After his playing career was over, he became a graduate assistant at the University of Oklahoma, before moving on to University of Wyoming, where he was going to be the wide receivers assistant coach. On August 4, 1999, he died from a sudden heart attack he suffered while playing racquetball.
His son Sterling, along with his older brothers Darrell and Woodie, also played college football at the University of Oklahoma.