Sam Houston State's football program is in mourning after announcing Sunday that defensive back Will Davis died Saturday. The 22-year-old graduate senior from South Boston, Virginia, had joined the Bearkats this spring as a transfer from West Virginia, and teammates and coaches have begun sharing tributes and condolences.
Head coach Phil Longo addressed the loss in a statement that captured both the shock and the affection felt inside the program. "It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the loss of Will Davis," Longo wrote, calling Davis "an upbeat, positive, passionate young man who will be sincerely missed." Longo added that he and his family are praying for Davis' loved ones, according to Sam Houston Athletics.
Background and Career
Davis built his reputation at Division II Virginia Union, where he played from 2022 through 2024 and emerged as one of the team's standouts. He earned All‑CIAA honors after a 2024 season that included 56 tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss and two interceptions.
He moved up to the FBS level for the 2025 season at West Virginia, appearing in one game for the Mountaineers before opting for a fresh start at Sam Houston. Davis transferred in January and joined the Bearkats for spring practice in April. The school intends to honor him during the 2026 season, and officials have not released a cause of death, as reported by the Houston Chronicle.
Reaction and Next Steps
The athletics department's initial release did not include any details about the circumstances surrounding Davis' death. The school has asked for privacy for the program and for Davis' family while they work through the immediate aftermath.
In its statement, the program described Davis as a "beloved member" of the Bearkat family and said it plans to collaborate with his loved ones on memorial arrangements, according to Sam Houston Athletics. Additional information may be released as his family and school officials decide how to proceed.
