The West Virginia University football program issued a heartfelt statement on Sunday, honoring former Mountaineer William Davis, who died on the night of Saturday, May 16, 2026, in an apparent suicide. He was 22.
A promising path cut short
Davis arrived at West Virginia as a defensive back with a reputation forged at Virginia Union, a Division II historically Black college where he earned all‑conference honors in the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association in 2024. That season he logged 56 tackles, 11.5 for loss, two interceptions and a sack, numbers that hinted at a bright future.
From Virginia Union to West Virginia
Born in South Boston, Virginia, Davis grew up steeped in a football‑rich environment. At Virginia Union he emerged as a standout, drawing attention from larger programs and eventually securing a transfer to West Virginia for the 2025 campaign.
A single season at WVU
During his lone year with the Mountaineers, Davis appeared in just one game under head coach Rich Rodriguez. The limited snap count reflected both the competitive depth of the roster and the adjustment period after moving from the Division II ranks to the Football Bowl Subdivision.
A move to Sam Houston and the aftermath
In January 2026, Davis announced his transfer to Sam Houston State University, seeking a fresh start and greater playing time. The move was seen as a pivotal step toward realizing the potential that had been evident during his collegiate debut.
The university's response
West Virginia’s athletic department released a statement describing Davis as ‘a talented young man whose dedication to the sport and to his teammates will not be forgotten.’ The release underscored the shock felt across the campus and among alumni, many of whom have taken to social media to share memories and condolences.
His story serves as a reminder of the pressures faced by student‑athletes and the importance of mental‑health support within collegiate programs. While his time on the field was brief, the impact of his presence lingered in the locker rooms and community he left behind.