USATSIA
Mississippi state offensive lineman Sam Westmoreland has died, the university announced Wednesday. Westmoreland, a freshman from Tupelo, Mississippi, was 18 years old and will turn 19 Friday.
“The Mississippi State Athletics Family is heartbroken by the sudden death of Sam Westmoreland,” Mississippi State Coach Mike Leach said in a statement. “Sam was a beloved son, brother and teammate, and an amazing young man with a boundless future. He will always be remembered and deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. The entire MSU family mourns as our thoughts and prayers go out to the Westmoreland family. Our highest priority is the support of the Westmoreland family and our student athletes during this difficult time.”
Mississippi State said in a statement it is working with the Oktibbeha County sheriff and coroners to gather facts about the incident. No cause of death has been announced.
“We are heartbroken by the sudden loss of Sam Westmoreland,” said athletic director John Cohen. “Mississippi State is a family and we are all grieving at this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Westmoreland family and everyone who knew and loved Sam.”
Bulldogs starting quarterback Will Rogers posted the following tweet in response to Westmoreland’s passing:
Westmoreland was an All-Region selection at Tupelo High School. He was named to the 2022 Northeast Mississippi Football Coaches Association All-Star Game after his senior season.
No. 24 Mississippi State will face No. 6 Alabama on the road Saturday at 7 p.m. ET.