Vontae Davis’ Passing, Retirement, and NFL Career
Former NFL cornerback Vontae Davis, who played for the Miami Dolphins, Indianapolis Colts, and Buffalo Bills during his professional career, has tragically passed away at the young age of 35. Davis’ body was discovered unresponsive on a residential property in Southwest Ranches, Florida belonging to his grandmother.
The Davie Police Department has confirmed they are investigating the circumstances surrounding his death, though they have stated there is no evidence to suggest foul play was involved at this time. Additional details regarding the cause of death have not yet been released as the investigation remains ongoing.
Vontae Davis, The Person
To all the love ones I leave behind
At least they can’t see me cry
And I ask when someone wants to be me, why?
Thought having everything would ease my mind
The lyrics of Rick Ross’ “Tears of Joy” hold different significance when weighing the tragic news of Vontae Davis’ passing following an abrupt exit form the NFL in 2018. When asked about his morning routine on that infamous day of the BIll’s game, he mentions pre-game rituals that include reciting Psalm 23 and listening to a playlist that always inlcudes “Tears of Joy”
The lyrics go on to say :
Last night I cried tears of joy
What did I do to deserve this
Young rich muthafucka’ still uneducated but dammit a nigga made it
God damn a nigga made it
Crib bigger than a church Lord know I’m blessed
Five different lawyers Lord know I’m stressed
In a world where many of us struggle to articulate the intangible feeling of simply existing, how does a person then make decisions that best align with personal contentment.
The Pressure to Perform: Vontae Davis, the Athlete
The NFL has arguably created more “wealthy” black men than any other American organization, but at what cost. Athletics as a passage to a better lived experience for the descendants of marginalized formerly enslaved people feels like a dream.
Vontae Davis, like many other young men, took the opportunities afforded to him in hopes of building something meaningful. I could try and expand on the athletic accolades but that feels shallow considering the fullness of his humanity.
But for those wondering about his impact on the gridiron…..
Career Highlights
- Drafted 1st round (25th overall) by the Miami Dolphins in the 2009 NFL Draft.
- Played for three teams: Miami Dolphins (2009-2012), Indianapolis Colts (2012-2017), Buffalo Bills (2018).
- Two-time Pro Bowler (2015, 2016) with the Indianapolis Colts.
- Key defensive player during the Colts’ playoff runs in 2014 and 2015.
- Known for his abrupt retirement in the middle of a game for the Buffalo Bills in 2018.
Playing Style
- Physical Cornerback: Vontae Davis was a physical cornerback who excelled in press coverage. He was known for his ability to jam receivers at the line of scrimmage and disrupt their routes.
- Ballhawk: Davis possessed good instincts and ball skills. He had a knack for making plays on the ball, including interceptions and pass deflections.
- Durability Concerns: While talented, Davis battled injuries throughout his career.
Vontae Davis NFL Career Earnings
Vontae Davis earned roughly $51,370,330 during his time in the NFL.
Davis earned majority of his money in the NFL from base salary with another large portion coming from signing and roster bonuses.
Here’s a complete breakdown:
- Base Salary Earnings : $33,182,206
- Signing Bonuses : $7,000,000
- Roster Bonuses : $6,893,125
- Workout Bonuses: $250,000
- Option Bonuses: $4,045,000
