The college football community is in mourning after the shocking news of the Nate White death. Nate White, a 20-year-old running back for South Dakota State University, was found unresponsive in his bed early Wednesday morning by his roommate at a residence in Brookings. Despite immediate efforts by emergency responders, White could not be revived and was pronounced deceased by the Brookings County Coroner. The incident has sent waves of grief through the SDSU campus and beyond, with tributes pouring in from teammates, coaches, and fans across the nation.
White, a Milwaukee, Wisconsin native, had transferred to SDSU this past January after spending two seasons with the University of Wisconsin. Highly regarded as a three-star recruit out of high school, he was projected to be a key player for the Jackrabbits this upcoming season, bringing energy and talent to the field. His sudden passing has left a void in the hearts of those who knew him, both on and off the field.
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Immediate Response and Community Impact
Within hours of the Nate White death, the Brookings Police Department was on the scene, responding to a 911 call made by White’s roommate at approximately 6:44 a.m. Authorities confirmed that White was found not breathing and unresponsive. Emergency efforts by Brookings Ambulance and police were unsuccessful in resuscitating him. His body was transported to Sanford Hospital in Sioux Falls for an autopsy, as the cause of death remains under investigation.
The news has resonated deeply across the South Dakota State University community. SDSU President Barry Dunn expressed profound sadness, noting that while White had only recently joined the campus, he quickly became beloved by teammates, coaches, and faculty alike. “This is certainly a sad time for our campus, community, and the thousands of Jackrabbits supporters across the state and nation,” Dunn said. “Our hearts and prayers are with Nate’s family, loved ones, teammates, and anyone who knew him.”
Social media platforms, including Twitter (now X), Instagram, and YouTube, have seen an outpouring of tributes. Teammates shared heartfelt messages, highlighting White’s positive spirit, work ethic, and the impact he made in a short time. Former coaches and players from his previous team at Wisconsin also paid their respects. “News of Nate White’s tragic passing has been sad and difficult to comprehend for all of the Wisconsin Badger football family,” Badgers head coach Luke Fickell wrote on X.
Key Points and Ongoing Developments
- Age and Background: Nate White was 20 years old, a top prep recruit from Milwaukee, and had three years of eligibility left.
- Career Path: He played two seasons at the University of Wisconsin before transferring to SDSU in January 2025.
- Role at SDSU: White was expected to be the starting running back for the Jackrabbits this fall, following strong performances in spring practices.
- Death Details: Found unresponsive in bed by his roommate at 6:44 a.m. on June 25, 2025; pronounced dead at the scene.
- Community Reaction: Immediate and widespread grief from teammates, coaches, university officials, and the broader college football community.
As of now, no official cause of death has been released. The investigation continues, with authorities awaiting autopsy results from Sanford Hospital. The Brookings Police Department has not indicated any signs of foul play, but the case remains open until all medical and forensic evidence is reviewed.
Tributes and Legacy
The Nate White death has brought the football community together in shared sorrow. SDSU head coach Dan Jackson described Jackrabbit football as a brotherhood, emphasizing the collective pain felt by the team. “Nate impacted our program with his hard work, determination, and overall positive spirit,” Jackson said. “We grieve with his family and will honor his memory throughout the upcoming season.”
White’s former teammates and coaches at Wisconsin echoed these sentiments, remembering him as a friend and teammate who brought joy and dedication to the locker room. The outpouring of support on social media underscores how deeply White touched those around him, even in a short period.
On Instagram, teammates posted photos and memories, while YouTube channels dedicated to college football shared highlight reels and tributes. The hashtag #NateWhite has trended in sports circles, reflecting the widespread impact of his loss.
Moving Forward
The South Dakota State football program is now focused on supporting White’s family and honoring his memory. The team plans to dedicate the upcoming season to him, with special tributes and moments of silence expected at games. The university has also made counseling services available to students, athletes, and staff affected by the tragedy.
As the investigation into the Nate White death continues, the community remains united in grief and remembrance. White’s legacy as a hardworking, spirited athlete and beloved teammate will endure, inspiring those who knew him and those who admired him from afar.
If you or someone you know is struggling with grief or loss, consider reaching out to support services or sharing your thoughts in memory of Nate White.