Former Colts CB Davis found dead at 35

Apr. 1—News of former Indianapolis Colts cornerback Vontae Davis' death spread quickly Monday, with several former teammates and coaches expressing condolences on social media.

Davis, 35, reportedly was found dead in his Miami-area home by a house assistant, and the Davie (Florida) Police Department released a statement saying it does not suspect foul play.

Other details about Davis' death were scarce.

"Sad day," Colts wide receivers coach Reggie Wayne, a former teammate of Davis, posted on X (formerly Twitter). "We used to battle every day in practice. Sometimes it ended in a bunch of bickering and almost fights. We got each other better. It was a pleasure wearing the horseshoe with you homie. Rest easy 'Champ.' Praying for your family and love(d) ones."

Davis spent six of his 10 NFL seasons with the Colts after arriving in a 2012 trade with the Miami Dolphins.

As physical as he was athletic, Davis made 245 career tackles in 76 games for Indianapolis. He intercepted 13 passes, broke up 65, caused two fumbles and recovered one.

Davis was part of AFC South championship teams in 2013 and 2014, and all six of his career playoff games came with the Colts.

He was selected to the Pro Bowl in 2014 and 2015, and quarterbacks rarely threw in his direction during those two seasons.

"Devastating and heartbreaking news," former Indianapolis head coach Chuck Pagano wrote on X. "My thoughts and prayers go out to the Davis family. It was an absolute honor and privilege being his coach in Indy. Great player but better person. Loved him like a son."

Davis was drafted by Miami with the 25th overall pick in 2009 after a standout career at Illinois.

He was named to the all-rookie team and finished with nine interceptions in 44 games over three seasons with the Dolphins before being dealt to the Colts.

He finished his career with the Buffalo Bills in 2018, suddenly retiring at halftime during the second game of the season.

"Today on the field, reality hit me fast and hard," Davis said in a statement a short time later. "I shouldn't be out there anymore. It's more important for me and my family to walk away healthy than to willfully embrace the warrior mentality and limp away too late."

Davis finished with 395 career tackles, 22 interceptions, three forced fumbles and two sacks.

He also grew into a locker-room leader with Indianapolis, and his impact lasted far beyond his time with the franchise.

"It hurts to see the news OG," current Colts cornerback Kenny Moore II wrote on X. "I felt the joy you had when we saw each other back in February. Much love and many prayers to your family and friends. You a legend VD. Dang."