Austin Peay University reported on Wednesday, May 8, that 22-year-old transfer defensive back William Hardrick has passed away after a fatal car accident in Limestone County, Alabama, on Tuesday, May 6.
Hardrick, who had recently transferred to Austin Peay after stints at Mississippi State (2021-22) and Miami University (2023-24), is remembered by coaches and teammates for his exceptional character and competitive spirit. In his memory, let’s look at his football career and lasting legacy.
Austin Peay Transfer William Hardrick Passes Away Following Car Accident in Alabama
Austin Peay’s head coach, Jeff Faris, expressed the team’s profound grief in a statement Wednesday.
“William Hardrick was an exceptional young man, and our team is heartbroken by his loss. 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.”
Austin Peay mourns the loss of William Hardrick, a senior football player, who passed away last night.https://t.co/rP9CRpZcSz
— Austin Peay Governors (@letsgopeay) May 7, 2025
Athletic Director Gerald Harrison echoed these sentiments.
“We are truly saddened by the passing of William Hardrick, a new member of our football program and the Austin Peay family. 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.”
The Miami (Ohio) football program, where Hardrick had played 18 games and recorded 32 tackles, a forced fumble, and five pass breakups, released a heartfelt tribute on social media.
The Miami Football family mourns the loss of former player, William Hardrick
Will brought a light to every room he walked into, our thoughts are with his family. pic.twitter.com/4BVYpNsq2b
— Miami Football (@MiamiOHFootball) May 7, 2025
“Will brought a light to every room he walked into. Our thoughts are with his family,” the post read, accompanying a black-and-white image of Hardrick in his Miami uniform.
Former coach Taveze Calhoun also shared his grief on X.
“Terrible news this morning! Prayers for Will’s family and teammates. One of the most competitive kids I’ve ever coached.”
This sentiment was echoed across social media platforms as former teammates and coaches remembered the standout athlete from Minor High School in Adamsville.
The Atlantic Sun Conference also joined in mourning with its official account posting, “The ASUN family joins Austin Peay in mourning the loss of William Hardrick.”
Throughout his college career, Hardrick demonstrated resilience and determination. He appeared in one game for Mississippi State before transferring to Miami (Ohio), where he developed into a reliable defensive back.
31-year-old John McAdams, who caused the Tuesday accident on I-65 in Alabama, has since been charged with murder, along with leaving the scene of the accident and a DUI. According to Hardick’s mother, he was driving home from Austin Peay at the time of the accident.
