Mississippi State, Mississippi - Mississippi State football's preferred walk-on and offensive lineman Sam Westmoreland has passed away, the university confirmed in a statement on Wednesday.

A Mississippi native, Westmoreland was in his first year with the Bulldogs football program, who is mourning the loss of the 19-year-old.

"The Mississippi State Athletics Family is heartbroken by the sudden death of Sam Westmoreland," head coach Mike Leach said in a statement.

"Sam was a beloved son, brother and teammate, and a tremendous young man with a limitless future. He will always be remembered and deeply missed by everyone who knew and loved him."

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Mississippi State's president Mark Keenum also shared his sentiments.

"One of the most profound lessons I've learned while leading this great university is that the tragic loss of one of our students diminishes all of our students — and all of us at Mississippi State feel the impact of Sam Westmoreland's death," Keenum said.

"My prayers are with Sam's family and friends, with his MSU teammates and coaches, and with the Tupelo community during this most difficult time."

Currently, the university is working cooperatively with the Oktibbeha County Sheriff's Office and the MSU Athletics Department to determine the facts surrounding Westmoreland's death.

While no cause of death has been confirmed, Bulldogs quarterback Will Rogers emphasized the importance of mental health care after Westmoreland's passing.

"RIP Sam," he tweeted in tribute. "It’s okay to not be okay and we can always do more no matter what is going on. Hail State forever brother. Til we meet again 78."

Westmoreland was projected to have a bright future with Mississippi after a high profile career in high school that earned the 6-foot-4 athlete region 2-6A second-team honors his senior year. He had already shined this college football season in big upsets over Texas A&M and Arkansas.

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The Bulldogs are currently ranked No. 24 in the nation and will travel to play No. 6 Alabama on Saturday.

Following the devastating news, Mississippi football canceled practice on Wednesday and will offer their players grieving support services.

If you or someone you know need help or is struggling with a mental health crisis or emotional distress, please call the Mental Health Hotline at 1-866-903-3787 for free and confidential support.

You can also text "HOME" to 741741 from anywhere in the US, anytime for the Crisis Text Line and access to live, trained crisis counselors.