Tragedy Strikes Austin Peay Football: Young Former Mississippi State Star William Hardrick Dies at 22

It’s tough to put into words the weight of losing a teammate, especially someone like William Hardrick, who had just begun carving his path with the Austin Peay Governors. At just 22, Hardrick’s journey from a promising three-star recruit in Alabama to a key defensive back was a narrative of grit, promises, and potential left unfulfilled. The shockwaves from his passing on May 6 ripple through the tight-knit football community and beyond—touching teammates, coaches, and fans alike. Coach Jeff Faris captured it well when he spoke of Hardrick’s impact—not just on the field, but in the locker room and in life. It’s a solemn moment that reminds us all of the fragile human stories behind the sport’s roar and glory.

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William Hardrick, a senior defensive back on the Austin Peay football team, died on May 6, the school announced.”William Hardrick was an exceptional young man, and our team is heartbroken by his loss,” Austin Peay coach Jeff Faris said in a news release. “He made everyone around him better and has made a real impact both on and off the field. We lift up the Hardrick family in prayer as we grieve this tragic loss with them.”Hardrick appeared in one game as a redshirt freshman at Mississippi State. At Miami, he appeared in 18 games over two seasons. Last season, he played in 11 games for the RedHawks, recording 26 tackles and four pass deflections.Hardrick, 22, joined the Governors this offseason. A native of Adamsville, Alabama, he was a 3-star recruit at Minor high school and signed with Mississippi State out of high school. He spent the 2021 and 2022 seasons with the Bulldogs before transferring to Miami (Ohio), where he played from 2023-24.Jacob Shames can be reached by email at [email protected] and on Twitter @Jacob_Shames.

“We are truly saddened by the passing of William Hardrick, a new member of our football program and the Austin Peay family,” said APSU athletic director Gerald Harrison. “All of our thoughts and prayers are with the Hardrick family today. We will do everything we can to support his friends, family and teammates at this time.”