GUELPH – Dakoda Shepley, a Canadian offensive lineman, has faced the challenging nature of professional football but maintains his excitement for the game. Since signing as an undrafted free agent with the New York Jets in 2018, Shepley has been associated with six different NFL teams, including two tenures with the Dallas Cowboys, and has played in 16 regular-season games.
The 31-year-old native of Windsor, Ontario, is currently gearing up for his first season with the Toronto Argonauts after joining the Canadian Football League (CFL) team in January. Shepley reflects on his NFL journey, saying, “It has taught me certainly it’s a business. But at the same time it’s a game, and if you can balance those two in your mind and control what you can control, then it doesn’t really matter where you play.” He emphasizes the importance of keeping the sport in perspective, noting, “We’re playing a kid’s game, so just keep it at that and don’t make it anything more than it is.”
Shepley began his professional journey after an accomplished collegiate career at the University of British Columbia. He was a four-year starter at right tackle and guard, winning the Vanier Cup in 2015 and securing a spot as a Canada West all-star during his senior year.
Following his signing with the Jets, the Saskatchewan Roughriders drafted him fifth overall in the 2018 CFL Draft. In his rookie season, he started 14 games. However, he opted out of his contract when the CFL canceled the 2020 season due to the pandemic and subsequently signed with the San Francisco 49ers. His career continued with stints in Seattle, Dallas, Indianapolis, and then back with the Cowboys before he made the decision to return to the CFL with the Argonauts.
Regarding his transition to the Argos, Shepley stated, “I thought it would be a good place for me to play towards the end of my career. My immediate family is all from Windsor.” He added that his wife and three-month-old daughter, Bowie, are currently in Dallas, making the direct flight to Toronto a convenient option for family visits.
Typically, players are recruited by teams, but in Shepley’s case, he took the initiative to contact the Argonauts. He explained, “If I’m able to, then I will. That’s kind of my motto for everything I do, not just football.”
Last season, the Toronto Argonauts faced significant challenges, leading the CFL in sacks allowed with 56 while having the league’s worst rushing attack, managing only 51.6 yards per game. Despite having a strong aerial game, the team's quarterback, Nick Arbuckle, was sacked 39 times, which was second only to Edmonton’s Cody Fajardo who was sacked 40 times. Arbuckle’s season ended early after sustaining a shoulder injury in a loss to Hamilton.
Shepley, who has experience playing at all three positions on the offensive line, is expected to take on a role at guard for the Argonauts. “He’s a hard worker and I’ve found him to be a great teammate, very coachable,” said Mike Miller, Toronto’s first-year head coach. Miller added that Shepley carries high expectations for himself and is greatly respected by his peers.
Adapting back to Canadian football has been seamless for Shepley. He noted, “It’s all just football. There’s a little bit more space between you and the D-line, that’s about it.” He sees the extra yard off the ball as both an advantage and a disadvantage, reiterating his view that the game remains just as physical.
With his NFL experience, Shepley will be under scrutiny this season. However, he emphasizes that the pressure he feels is self-imposed, stating, “I think pressure is a privilege. If I have any more pressure, it’s on myself because I want to be the best I can be at all times.” He considers himself a “savvy vet” and believes he has acquired additional skills during his time in the league.
