Midwestern State cornerback Robert Grays dies after being injured in game

Midwestern State sophomore cornerback Robert Grays died on Tuesday, the school announced Wednesday. He was 19. 

Grays suffered a neck injury while making a tackle during the team's game Saturday against Texas A&M-Kingsville and was hospitalized in Wichita Falls, Texas. According to a statement from Midwestern State president Suzanne Shipley, he died from critical injuries suffered in the game after being airlifted to a hospital.

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“We mourn the loss of one of our own," Shipley said in the statement. "I know you will join me in expressing the sincerest condolences of the MSU community to Robert’s family and friends. Please keep them in your thoughts in the coming days.

“Robert touched many lives while attending the university, but perhaps he will be remembered best for his smile. He was an inspiration on and off the field to those around him, and he will be remembered with love and affection by his friends, classmates, coaches and teammates.”

Grays, who was just 5-foot-8, saw playing time in all of the Mustangs' 11 games as a freshman and was a key contributor on this year's team, ranked No. 12 in NCAA Division II. He also played on special teams as a kickoff and punt returner. 

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