Vontae Davis (1988–2024), former NFL cornerback

Vontae Davis was a cornerback for the Miami Dolphins, Indianapolis Colts, and Buffalo Bills, who famously retired during halftime of a 2018 game.

• Died: April 1, 2024 (Who else died on April 1?)
• Details of death: Died at his home in Southwest Ranches, Florida at the age of 35.
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Vontae Davis’ legacy

Davis played college football at the University of Illinois. A top draft prospect, he chose to enter the NFL draft after his junior year with the Fighting Illini. He was chosen in the first round by the Dolphins and debuted with the team in the 2009 season opener. He was traded to the Colts in 2012, and he went on to have some of his best seasons with the team. He was a two-time Pro Bowl pick with the Colts, in 2014 and 2015.

Davis clashed with Colts leadership in his final season there, and he was released by the team in 2017, midway through the season. He joined the Bills for the 2018 season, but his time there was short-lived. In game two of the season, playing the Los Angeles Chargers, he left the stadium at halftime, later announcing his retirement. The surprising move made news, and the decision was mocked by some, but Davis stood by his choice, saying he was ready to be done. After his retirement, Davis was CEO of VZONE, a holistic wellness spa in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Notable quote

“Most people, when I did what I did, they thought I was literally going insane or something. But I was actually fine. I was totally fine. And I'm totally fine today.” —from a 2019 interview for ESPN

Tributes to Vontae Davis

Full obituary: Indianapolis Star

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