Sam Houston State University in Texas has reported the death of a new student-athlete. William Davis, a 22-year-old defensive back, passed away, with the news shared by the school on Saturday.
Phil Longo, the head coach, expressed his condolences in a Sunday statement: “It is with deep hearts that we mourn the passing of Will Davis.”
He continued, highlighting Davis’s positive impact on those around him: “Will was a beloved member of the Bearcat football family and touched the lives of everyone he knew. His cheerful and passionate nature will be dearly missed.”
Longo also mentioned that their thoughts and prayers are with Davis’s family during this challenging time.
The cause of Davis’s death has not been disclosed.
Prior to transferring to Sam Houston State, Davis played three seasons at Virginia Union University from 2022 to 2024. Earlier this year, he moved to Huntsville, about an hour north of Houston. During his time at Virginia Union, he earned CIAA All-Conference honors in 2024, showcasing a strong season with 56 tackles, 11.5 for loss, two interceptions, and one sack.
He then had a brief stint at West Virginia for the 2025 season but only played in one game before deciding to join Sam Houston State in January.
After becoming part of the Bearkats, Davis began spring training in April, gearing up for the upcoming season. He previously said, “Sam Houston felt like home from the moment I first stepped foot on campus.” The Virginia native elaborated that he sought a place where he could fit in culturally, even if it meant moving away from home.
Additionally, Davis graduated with a degree in entrepreneurial management from Virginia Union in 2024.
SHSU has announced plans to honor Davis during the 2026 season, though further details are still pending.
