NASHVILLE  - Tennessee State University is tonight mourning the death of one of its student- athletes.

William Wayne Jones, III, a freshman walk-on defensive back from Smyrna, Tenn., passed out and became unresponsive during an early evening practice at approximately 4 p.m. Jones was transported to Baptist Medical Center in Nashville where efforts to revive him were unsuccessful and died at approximately 5:50 p.m.

"This is a very tragic day for our entire Tennessee State University community and we are devastated by the sudden passing of this young man," said Teresa Phillips, TSU Athletics Director. "Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this very difficult time. Our University and our football team are hurting as we feel the loss of one of our own. As a team and a family we will grieve alongside the family and do everything we can to help support the family through this very difficult time."

Students, faculty, staff and the TSU community are mourning the loss of the young football player. More details will be made as they become available.