Jarvis Williams, a former defensive back for the Miami Dolphins, has died.
A spokeswoman with the Putnam Community Medical Center says the 45-year-old Williams passed away shortly before midnight Tuesday in his home town of Palatka, Fla. The medical examiner confirmed the cause of death as an acute asthma attack.
Williams got his start as a safety at the University of Florida and was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame in 2001.
He played with the Dolphins from 1988-1993 and was an impact starter on defense. The hard-hitting safety patrolled the back line of the defense and had his best season in 1990 when he nabbed five interceptions, including one for a touchdown.
He joined the New York Giants for his final season in 1994.
Williams had been working as a volunteer football coach at Interlachen High School in Putnam County earlier this year. Principal Phyllis Criswell says the team has taken the news very hard.
