Tragic Passing of William Jewell College Running Back MichahJo Barnett

MichahJo Barnett, a running back for William Jewell College, tragically passed away on Saturday following a medical emergency during the team’s season opener against Fort Lewis College in Liberty, Missouri. Barnett’s untimely death has left the community in mourning.

A spokesperson for William Jewell College shared with Newsweek that there were no known pre-existing conditions preventing Barnett from participating in the game. The cause of the medical emergency remains undetermined.

The college expressed condolences in a social media post, offering thoughts and prayers to Barnett’s family, teammates, friends, and coaches. A vigil was organized on campus to honor Barnett and support his family in their time of grief.

The world lost a great person today. MicahJo was the ultimate human, always putting his teammates before himself and uplifting those around him. His passing reminds us to cherish life and express love to those close to us. – Greg Jones, former college football coach and Missouri Football Coach Hall of Famer, posted on social media.

Barnett experienced a medical emergency on the sideline during the first quarter of the game, which led to the suspension and eventual cancellation of the match. He was transported to a local hospital but was later pronounced dead.

Barnett was a junior majoring in business administration and had emerged as a key player in the William Jewell’s football program. Hailing from Kansas City and a Liberty North High School alum, Barnett contributed to his high school’s Missouri state championship victory before advancing in his athletic and academic career at William Jewell.

On the field, Barnett had established himself as a standout performer for the Cardinals. Despite a shortened season due to injury, he led the team in rushing for the 2025 season with 366 yards and four touchdowns. His notable games included a performance against Kentucky Wesleyan, where he rushed for 150 yards and three touchdowns. His efforts in academics earned him Academic All-Great Lakes Valley Conference honors.

William Jewell plans to play an away game at Kentucky Wesleyan College on September 12.