Vontae Davis, who played football in the National Football League for the Indianapolis Colts, Miami Dolphins and the Buffalo Bills, has died. He was 35.
Foul play is not suspected, Sports Illustrated reported.
The Davie, Florida, police told ESPN’s Stephen Holder the following statement on Monday.
“This morning, Davie Police Officers responded to 6051 SW 178th Avenue in reference to a medical call. Officers were called to the residence by the house assistant, who found the homeowner deceased. We can confirm that the deceased individual is Vontae Davis age 35. Preliminary information suggests that foul play is not involved. This investigation remains active.”
The Bills also released a statement on Davis.
“We are saddened to learn of the passing of Vontae Davis. We are thinking of his friends, family, and loved ones during this difficult time.”
Davis was a Pro Bowl cornerback who played most of his 10-year career with the Colts, according to Sports Illustrated.
His time with the Bills was not long, but it was memorable.
In Week 2 in 2018, Davis retired mid-game as the Bills played the Los Angeles Chargers. This is something never seen before in the NFL, per the outlet.
Davis released a statement after his retirement.
“This isn’t how I pictured retiring from the NFL, but in my 10th NFL season, I have been doing what my body has been programmed to do: Get ready to play on game day. I’ve endured multiple surgeries and played through many different injuries throughout my career and, over the last few weeks, this was the latest physical challenge.”
The Bills lost the game 31-20. Davis had just one tackle in the only game of his Bills career, Sports Illustrated reported.
Davis, the brother of former NFL tight end Vernon Davis, talked to CNN about the difficult upbringing they experienced.
“I come from very humble beginnings,” Davis said. “My mother was addicted to drugs, my father an alcoholic. I grew up in some very traumatic situations. I witnessed my father being shot multiple times by his brother. And when you come out of situations like that, you’re just not considered a quitter.
“I don’t think I quit. I think I feel that, as I walk away from a game that no longer serves me mentally, physically, and emotionally. That’s what I would tell people who say I quit. Most people don’t know who I am as a person or what I’ve been through to achieve the success I have.”
Many fans expressed their sadness over his death.
