Former Mississippi State defensive back killed in DUI crash at 22

Former Mississippi State football player William Hardrick died on Tuesday night, according to a release from Austin Peay Athletics. He was 22. 

According to multiple reports, Hardrick was involved in a deadly crash on I-65 in Alabama. Witnesses tell WAFF a vehicle traveling southbound went airborne flipping several times, and the car was stopped on Piney Chapel Road. Hardrick was pronounced dead at the scene. 

John McAdams was charged with Hardrick’s murder, according to WAFF. He’s also charged with leaving the scene of an accident and DUI. Court records show his field sobriety test showed a 0.09% blood alcohol content over the legal limit.

Hardrick originally committed to Mississippi State out of Minor High School (Alabama). The three-star prospect was a two-way standout before committing to the late Mike Leach in 2021. He hit the transfer portal shortly after the death of his coach. 

Hardrick spent the next two seasons playing for the Miami (OH) RedHawks before transferring to Austin Peay, where he was slated for an expanded role.

“William Hardrick was an exceptional young man, and our team is heartbroken by his loss,” Austin Peay head coach Jeff Faris said in the 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 played in 18 games for Miami OH across the past two seasons and racked up with 32 tackles, forced fumble and 5 pass deflections.