Scottsdale Scorpions
While playing with the Scottsdale Scorpions of the AFL, Stenson was murdered. The AFL suspended play for two days after Stenson's murder. In 2004, the league inaugurated the Dernell Stenson Sportsmanship Award, given to a player who displays the values of perseverance and humility. His number, 26, was posthumously retired by the Lookouts.