East Burke High School retired jersey No. 43 in honor of former Cavaliers football standout and NFL offensive lineman Tyler Shatley last week.
The recognition of Shatley’s career at East Burke, Clemson and in the NFL took place during halftime of the season-opening football game between the Cavaliers and West Iredell.
Former NFL player Tyler Shatley walks on to the football field at East Burke High School with his wife, Natalie.
Cheryl Shuffler
Shatley played fullback, punter and defensive line at East Burke between 2005 and 2009. He was a three-sport athlete who also competed in wrestling and track and field. He was a two-time state runner up at 285 pounds in wrestling and a two-time shot put state champion in track and field.
In football he was named conference player of the year and was honored as the NCHSAA’s 2009 Male Athlete of the Year.
Shatley attended Clemson where he moved to defensive line in 2010 and then offensive line in 2012.
In the NFL, Shatley appeared in 145 games for the Jacksonville Jaguars, including a franchise record streak of 140 straight games over nine seasons. He retired as the record holder for the most NFL games played outside of the United States.
Shatley announced his retirement last August, saying the 2024 NFL season would be his final campaign.
Former NFL player Tyler Shatley celebrates having his jersey number retired at East Burke High School surrounded by family and friends on Friday night.
Cheryl Shuffler PHOTOS
Shatley said coming back to his hometown for the celebration of his career was a reminder that his success has been a group effort.
“I got my jersey retired, but it was so much more,†Shatley said. “It’s the people that poured into me over the years, the PeeWee coaches, the middle school coaches, the fans that came out every week when I was here, the coaches that were here, all the guys that I played with, they all made that possible ... and I’m so grateful that I get to share this with everybody again.â€
Jason Koon is the Sports Editor for the Hickory Record and can be reached at jason.koon@lee.net.
Former NFL player Tyler Shatley celebrates having his jersey number retired at East Burke High School surrounded by family and friends on Friday night.
