Marsing celebrates its NFL son

July 29, 2024

About two percent of the total population in Marsing, Idaho gathered at the local pizza parlor Thursday night, eagerly waiting for native son Shea McClellin's name to be called by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell.

The town of about 1100 people is surrounded by vineyards - with approximately one acre of grapes for every resident in Marsing.

At 'The Spot Pizza,' regular chatter among friends fell silent every time Goodell stepped to the podium. Anticipation for McClellin to step on the stage was the talk of the town all week.

"At the grocery store, the coffee shops, everyone was talking about where he might go and how proud we are of him," said resident Julia Burham.

The crowd erupted in cheers as Goodell read McClellin's name off the draft card of the Chicago Bears, and applause continued as he was interviewed by ESPN's Suzy Kolber - who pointed out his small town roots and funny name of his hometown street: Chicken Dinner Road.

However, in true small town fashion, residents know the day was not just about the place known as 'the gateway to the Owyhees.'

"It also says that where ever you're at: Idaho or where ever, small communities, that if given the opportunity you can excel," resident Darryl Watson said.

Darryl Burham said of the excitement surrounding McClellin's place in the NFL draft, "it really brought the whole community closer together, something for us to look forward to."

"And it turned out alright."

ncG1vNJzZmihlJa1sLrEsKpnm5%2BifKK5z2ilnq%2BjZLmwr8ClZqaZoqi2r7OMnJylnZKnrrWx0magratdo7OtedKopQ%3D%3D