Sam Houston State University is grieving the sudden death of defensive back William Davis, who has died at just 22 years old.
The heartbreaking news was confirmed by the school, which said the young student-athlete’s passing has shaken the entire Bearkats football family.
“We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of SHSU student-athlete Will Davis,” a spokesperson for Sam Houston State University said.
Head football coach Phil Longo also released an emotional statement remembering Davis as far more than just a player on the roster.
“It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the loss of Will Davis,” Longo said. “Will was a beloved member of our Bearkat football family here at Sam Houston who touched the lives of everyone he knew.”
The coach described Davis as an “upbeat, positive, passionate young man” who made a lasting impact in a short time.
“Will was an upbeat, positive, passionate young man who will be sincerely missed,” Longo continued. “Tanya, the kids and I are praying for Will’s family during this difficult time.”
Davis had recently transferred to Sam Houston State earlier this year after beginning his college football career at Virginia Union University, an HBCU. He played there for three seasons from 2022 through 2024 before making the move to Huntsville for a new opportunity with the Bearkats.
He joined Sam Houston State for spring workouts in April and was preparing for what should have been a fresh chapter in his football journey.
After committing to the program, Davis had spoken with excitement about his decision. He said Sam Houston State felt like home right away and talked about wanting to find the right cultural fit far from his home state of Virginia.
The cause of death has not been released.
School officials said the football program plans to honor Davis during the 2026 season, though details have not yet been announced.
