Sam Houston and former West Virginia football defensive back William Davis died at the age of 22 on Saturday, May 16, according to Sam Houston. The university didn’t announce a cause, but listed it as “sudden,” and there are reports that it was a suicide.
“It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the loss of Will Davis,” Sam Houston head coach Phil Longo said. “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 played in one game last season for the Mountaineers after transferring over from Virginia Union. Before WVU, he played 36 career games and made 20 starts. In 2024, he recorded 56 tackles, including 11.5 tackles for loss.
After one year with the Mountaineers, he transferred to Sam Houston this offseason, preparing to play in the fall.
