Sam Houston State University 22-year-old defensive back dies, school says

HUNTSVILLE, Texas (KTRK) -- Sam Houston State University confirmed that one of their own, a 22-year-old football player, has died.

School officials said that Bearkats defensive back William Davis died over the weekend. His cause of death remains unknown at this time.

The head football coach at SHSU posted a statement on the school's official football page about Davis' passing, calling him a passionate young man.

"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. 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 graduate senior from South Boston, Virginia, who had just joined the team prior to spring practice after having played at West Virginia and Virginia Union.

The university says it plans to honor Davis for the upcoming 2026-2027 football season.