Sam Houston State football player William Davis dies at 22 just months after emotional Virginia Union transfer

William Davis, a young football player who recently joined Sam Houston State University, has died at the age of 22. His passing has left teammates, coaches, and fans heartbroken just months after he arrived in Texas to begin a new chapter in his football career. The news became public after TMZ Sports reported that a spokesperson from Sam Houston State University confirmed Davis’ death. The school did not share the cause of death.

Davis had transferred earlier this year from Virginia Union University, where he spent three seasons building a strong name for himself on the field. He had recently started spring workouts with the Bearkats and was preparing for the 2026 football season. People connected to the program remembered Davis as a positive and caring teammate. His death came as a shock to many because he had just started settling into his new team and was looking forward to the future.

Sam Houston State coach Phil Longo remembers William Davis as a positive and passionate teammate

Sam Houston State head football coach Phil Longo shared an emotional message after the news became public. In his official statement released by the university, Longo said, “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.”

Longo continued by saying, “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.”

Before moving to Sam Houston State, Davis played at Virginia Union University from 2022 through 2024. During his time there, he became known as a talented defensive back and earned respect from teammates and coaches. Earlier this year, he decided to transfer to Sam Houston State for a fresh opportunity far from his home state of Virginia.

After committing to the Bearkats, Davis spoke about how comfortable he felt with the school and its football culture. He said the environment felt like home almost immediately after arriving on campus.

According to Sam Houston State officials, the football program plans to honor Davis during the 2026 season. However, the university has not yet announced specific details about how that tribute will take place.

TMZ Sports and official statements from Sam Houston State University were the confirmed sources for the information released about Davis’ death.



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