Arizona offensive lineman Zach Hemmila dies in sleep at 22

Arizona offensive lineman Zach Hemmila died in his sleep Sunday night, according to a statement from head coach Rich Rodriguez. He was 22.

Rodriguez tearfully told reporters Monday of Hemmila's death. He said he spoke with Hemmila's father and that Hemmila's family had been visiting for the past few days.

"The last I saw him was last night after a meeting, talked two nights ago," Rodriguez said of Hemmila, while trying to control his emotions. "He out of the blue just came down and sat beside me, talked for about 45 minutes, just about everything, how happy he was."

Arizona athletic director Greg Byrne confirmed the school was notified Monday morning of Hemmila's death, and that Rodriguez had informed the team prior to speaking with reporters. Rodriguez would not speculate on the details as they are yet to be released.

A redshirt senior for the Wildcats, Hemmila appeared in all 13 games last season. He recorded six starts, five of them at left guard, as well as some time at center.