Baylor confirms death of freshman DL Alex Foster

Baylor defensive lineman Alex Foster died Wednesday morning while home in Mississippi, the school confirmed in a statement. Shehan Jeyarajah of CBS Sports later reported that Foster was killed in a shooting.

“We are heartbroken by the unexpected loss of Alex Foster, a beloved member of our football family,” the statement from Baylor read. “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.”

Foster was 18 and preparing to enter his second season in Waco after redshirting in 2024. Bears coach Dave Aranda released his own statement about the tragic passing on X.

“Alex was a beloved member of our Baylor Family, and we are devastated by this loss,” Aranda wrote. “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.”

Foster played high school football at St. Joseph in Greenville, Mississippi, where he was a four-star recruit. He ranked as the No. 392 overall player and No. 37 defensive lineman in the 2024 cycle according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.

Although he did not appear in any games as a true freshman while he continued to develop, Foster still became a vital part of the team and formed many bonds with coaches and players alike. He was expected to compete for more time on the defensive line this upcoming year.

Baylor is coming off of an 8-5 finish this past season. The Bears will look to find ways to honor Foster in the 2025 campaign as they hope to take another step forward.

Big 12 releases statement on tragic passing of Alex Foster

As news continued to make its way around the country, more and more people continued to offer their condolences. That included the Big 12 conference, which released a statement on the matter.

“The Big 12 Conference extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Baylor football student-athlete Alex Foster,” the conference wrote on X. “We are deeply saddened by his passing and join the entire Baylor community during this time of mourning.