On Wednesday, Baylor confirmed that redshirt freshman defensive lineman Alex Foster died unexpectedly in his home state of Mississippi.
He was 18 years old.
Foster didn't play a game in his first season at Waco, but was expected to play a bigger role on Baylor's defense this year. He was one of the program's biggest recruits in the Class of 2024 and just finished Baylor's spring practices this month.
Here's what Baylor said about Foster's death.
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Alex Foster death
Alex Foster, a Baylor football redshirt freshman defensive lineman, died on Wednesday morning. Baylor football confirmed Foster's death in a statement on Wednesday.
"We are heartbroken by the unexpected loss of Alex Foster, a beloved member of our football family," Baylor Athletics said. "Our deepest condolences are with Alex’s family and all who loved him, as we lift them up in prayer now and in the days to come. In this time of deep sorrow, we draw strength from our faith, the love of the Baylor community, and the unbreakable bond forged through the game we love. Alex’s memory will forever be part of our hearts and this program."
— Baylor Football (@BUFootball) May 28, 2025
In a separate post on social media, head coach Dave Aranda mourned Foster's loss in his own words.
"Alex was a beloved member of our Baylor Family, and we are devastated by this loss," Aranda said. "In his time at Baylor, he made a long-lasting impact on all of us in the program. Our hearts are broken, and our prayers are with his family, friends and all those who loved him so deeply."
According to 247 Sports, Foster was a three-star recruit in the Class of 2024 out of Mississippi who also received offers from Texas, Arkansas, Georgia Tech and Arkansas State. He played high school football at St. Joseph Catholic School in Madison, Mississippi.
The 18-year-old was entering his second season with Baylor after he didn't play a game and redshirted during the 2024 season. Foster was expected to play a bigger role in Baylor's defense this year as one of the key pieces of the defensive line.
Alex Foster cause of death
Foster died early Wednesday when he was shot and killed in a car in Mississippi, the coroner's office confirmed. The incident was part of a "surge in violent crimes," according to Greenville mayor Errick D. Simmons, which has included multiple shootings and deaths.