Vontae Davis dies aged 35 as tributes flood in after ex-NFL star found dead in Florida
Former NFL star Vontae Davis has died at the age of 35 after being found at a Florida mansion owned by his grandmother.
Tributes have been made to the former cornerback, who had a nine-year career in the NFL between 2009 and 2018.
Police said on Monday that an investigation into Davis’ death is taking place after finding his body but they do not suspect foul play.
A police statement said: “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. The investigation remains active.”
Davis, brother of former Super Bowl winner Vernon, spent the early years of his NFL career at Miami Dolphins and the team posted a tribute on their X account.
It read: “We are heartbroken by the sudden passing of former Dolphins CB Vontae Davis and extend our deepest condolences to his family & loved ones during this difficult time.”
He spent over half of his playing days at the Indianapolis Colts and they posted an emotional message upon hearing the news.
The Colts said: “We are devastated to hear of Vontae Davis’s passing.
“He was a standout player in his six seasons with the Horseshoe but he was an even better team-mate who carried a smile and positive energy every day.
“He will be deeply missed and we send our prayers to his family and loved ones.”
Colts owner Jim Irsay also took to X to post his tribute to Davis.
He wrote: “Extremely saddened to hear of the passing of Vontae Davis. A great guy, team-mate, player. My prayers to Vontae’s family.”
Davis finished his career with one season at the Buffalo Bills in 2018.
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The Bills posted: “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.”
The official NFL account also wrote: “The NFL is heartbroken to hear about the passing of Vontae Davis. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones.”
Davis’ death comes a year after he was found asleep by the side of a highway after crashing his Tesla.
He was arrested for DUI and was sentenced to probation last November after cutting a plea deal, where he completed 50 hours of community service and covered the medical bills of those involved in the crash.
Davis’ childhood friend Bobby Maze posted an emotional message on Facebook upon learning of his death.
Maze wrote: “To my childhood friend and to my brother Vontae Davis rest in peace. No words can explain how I feel right now.
“You was one of a kind and so full of life. Life will never be the same without my brother.
“Them FaceTime calls etc damn I wish we could have one more convo. You beat the odds, you made it, you did it your way, it just wasn’t supposed to end like this.”