West Virginia University Lands Former HBCU Star William Davis
MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — In a move that could reshape the Mountaineers’ secondary, West Virginia University has landed a major defensive talent in the form of William Davis, a former standout safety at Virginia Union University, a prominent HBCU in the CIAA. Davis, known for his ball-hawking instincts and fierce tackling, brings an impressive résumé to Morgantown: 9 interceptions, 115 total tackles, and a reputation as one of the most feared defenders in Division II football.
Davis, a 6-foot-1, 205-pound athlete from Richmond, Virginia, announced his transfer decision via social media on Tuesday, calling the opportunity “a dream and a challenge I’m ready to face.” For West Virginia head coach Neal Brown and defensive coordinator Jordan Lesley, the acquisition isn’t just about plugging a hole—it’s about injecting a proven playmaker into a defense that ranked near the bottom of the Big 12 in takeaways last season.
“William’s game speaks for itself,” said Coach Brown. “He’s physical, instinctive, and has a nose for the football. What he did at Virginia Union wasn’t just impressive—it was dominant. We believe he can step in and elevate the level of competition immediately.”
During his junior year at Virginia Union, Davis led the team in both tackles and interceptions. His performance against Bowie State—where he recorded 13 tackles, 2 picks, and a forced fumble—was a turning point in his season and turned heads well beyond the CIAA. NFL scouts began taking notice, and his name circulated quietly in Power Five recruiting circles. Davis entered the transfer portal in December and quickly became one of the most sought-after defensive backs among Group of Five and Power Five programs alike.
His commitment to West Virginia signals more than just a personal leap—it’s a symbolic bridge between HBCU excellence and the Power Five spotlight. Davis credits his time at Virginia Union for molding his work ethic and grit. “Playing at an HBCU gave me everything—discipline, love, toughness. I’m never forgetting where I came from,” he told reporters after a spring practice session in Morgantown.
Sources within the WVU athletic department indicate that Davis is expected to compete for a starting spot immediately, potentially lining up as a strong safety or hybrid nickel linebacker, given his physicality and versatility in coverage.
For a Mountaineers defense looking for leadership and edge, Davis may be the missing piece. His arrival brings not just statistics but an identity—a hard-hitting, relentless style that fans in Morgantown crave. As the Big 12 braces for another brutal season, West Virginia may have just added the enforcer they need to reclaim respect in a league dominated by high-octane offenses.
And for Davis, the mission is simple: prove that talent from any level, including HBCUs, can shine under the brightest lights.
