The University of Illinois lost a member of its football family on Monday.
It has been announced that the great Vontae Davis has been found dead in South Florida. The cause of death is unknown at this time. He was 35 years old. According to WSVN, police arrived at the Davis residence and announced that “a man was found dead in his home and there were no signs of criminal activity.”
Davis played for the Illini from 2006 to 2008. He played in all 36 games during his career with Champaign.
Illinois assistant basketball coach Chester Frazier posted on social media, “#IlliniNation, great loss today!!! Rest in peace @vontaedavis.” I have nothing but fond memories of this guy from my school days!!! Praying for the Davis family!!”
Frazier, a Baltimore native, grew up near Davis, who is from the Washington, D.C., area.
An All-American as a freshman, Davis broke out as a sophomore. He recorded 56 tackles and was tied for third in the Big Ten with four interceptions. He also recorded 13 tackles against USC in the Rose Bowl that season.
Davis declared for the NFL draft after his junior year and left Illinois State. He was selected by the Miami Dolphins with the 25th pick. He started three seasons with the Dolphins and was traded to the Indianapolis Colts in 2012. He was a two-time Pro Bowler with the Colts and finished his career with the Buffalo Bills in 2018. He abruptly retired from the Bills. During the season, he stated that he had no interest in playing football anymore.
