Greg Sankey, the SEC commissioner, has released a statement following Mississippi State’s announcement of the passing of offensive lineman Sam Westmoreland.

“We are incredibly sad to learn of Mississippi State student-athlete Sam Westmoreland’s passing. I know the entire Southeastern Conference family sends its condolences to the Westmoreland family, his teammates, classmates and all who knew Sam,” Sankey said in a statement. “Our players today are with everyone at Mississippi State.”

Mississippi State shared earlier Wednesday that Westmoreland, 18, of Tupelo, Mississippi was a Tupelo High School graduate, and an industrial technology major.

Mike Leach shared in a statement that, “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. The entire MSU Family mourns as our thoughts and prayers go out to the Westmoreland family. Our highest priority is the support of the Westmoreland family and our student-athletes during this troubling time.”