The Morgan State community is mourning the loss of Junior football player Saif Bryant.

Bryant passed away at 21-years-old on Sunday, April 8 in his hometown of Ellicott City, in a single-vehicle crash.

Bryant was a transfer physical education major  and was a walk on player for MSU football team.

“On behalf of the entire Morgan State University community and the Department of Athletics we are heartbroken at the loss of Saif,” MSU Athletic Director, Edward Scott said. “Our hearts, thoughts and prayers go out to the Bryant family, Saif’s friends and teammates.
“Regardless of wins and losses, our focus is always on the people. We work in the people business, and whenever we lose somebody it gives us great perspective on the importance of human life and intercollegiate athletics takes a back seat. This is a very difficult loss for the Bears family and we are extremely saddened,” said Scott.

Bryant impressed head football coach Ernest T. Jones and the coaches during an open tryout for his mix of athletic ability, personality, commitment and academic performance.

Bryant’s ability to make the MSU football team from an open tryout was rare, and a testament to his abilities, Jones said.
“He bleed Morgan, he was one of the more prouder guys apart of our team and you saw it every day,” said coach Jones.
Bryant was a solid football player at Howard High School in Howard County, MD. His former coach at Howard High, Michael Ritucci shared his thoughts via Twitter.

“Saif was a great young man who was working at BJ’s while attending school at Morgan State university. He also played football for MSU. I will miss our conversations about life and football. I’m proud to have coached Saif. Please pray for his family as he is a tremendous loss,” said Ritucci.

The funeral service will be Friday, April 20 at 11 a.m. at the University Memorial Chapel at MSU.