Tributes Pouring In After College Football Star Dies 'Suddenly' at 22
Tributes are pouring in after a 22-year-old college football star died "suddenly" at 22 years old over the weekend.
William Davis, a standout college football player who starred at an HBCU before transferring to Sam Houston State in Texas, has died. He passed away suddenly over the weekend, his coach confirmed.
"It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the loss of Will Davis. Will was a beloved member of our Bearkat football family here at Sam Houston who touched the lives of everyone he knew," head coach Phil Longo said.
Coach Longo added: "Will was an upbeat, positive, passionate young man who will be sincerely missed. Tanya, the kids and I are praying for Will's family during this difficult time."
Davis was a standout defensive back.
In the wake of his death, the college football world is mourning his passing. Tributes for the standout player are pouring in.
College football world deeply saddened by his passing
College football players, fans and media members are incredibly saddened by his passing.
"Devastating news today that Sam Houston DB William Davis passed away last night. Praying for the Davis family, his friends, and all of Sam Houston Football," one fan wrote.
"Sending prayers with my deepest sympathy and condolences to his family and entire Bearkats family 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽," one added.
"Please check on each other. You never know what's behind the scenes. Ask those questions. Lift each other up," one added.
"Just awful news man… sending my thoughts and condolences to everyone in the Sam Houston community 🙏," one shared.
Our thoughts are with his friends and family members during this extremely difficult time on Monday morning.
May he rest in peace.
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This story was originally published May 18, 2026 at 9:16 AM.