The Sam Houston State University community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of defensive back William Davis, who has died at just 22 years old.
A spokesperson for the university confirmed the tragic news, sharing that the school was “deeply saddened” by the sudden passing of the student-athlete.
Head football coach Phil Longo also paid tribute to Davis in an emotional statement, describing him as a beloved member of the Bearkat football family.
“It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the loss of Will Davis,” Longo said. “Will was an upbeat, positive, passionate young man who touched the lives of everyone he knew and will be sincerely missed.”
Davis had recently transferred to Sam Houston State earlier this year after spending three seasons at Virginia Union University from 2022 to 2024. He joined the Bearkats for spring workouts in Huntsville this April and was looking forward to a new chapter with the program.
After committing to the school, Davis spoke about instantly feeling at home at SHSU and wanting to be part of a strong team culture away from his home state of Virginia.
University officials said the football program plans to honor Davis during the 2026 season, though additional details have not yet been revealed.
His cause of death has not been released.
William Davis was 22 years old.#newsafro_
