David Sills: College | Contract | College Stats | WVU | High School

David Sills V is one of the most talked-about football players of his generation — and for good reason. From being one of the earliest Division I scholarship offers in history to redefining success at West Virginia University (WVU) and taking his talents into the NFL, Sills’ career has been a remarkable roller coaster that inspires fans, recruiters, and aspiring athletes alike.

This in-depth article explores the highlights of his high school career, college achievements, contract journey, performance statistics, and lasting impact on and off the gridiron.

1. Early Life and High School Stardom

David Sills was born on May 29, 1996, in Wilmington, Delaware. Early on, his football ability stood out — so much that he made national headlines as a middle schooler when he received a scholarship offer from USC as a 13-year-old quarterback. This moment marked one of the earliest known Division I offers to such a young athlete, thrusting Sills into the spotlight early in his life.

Eastern Christian Academy

Sills attended Eastern Christian Academy, a school known for its focus on football development. There, he played quarterback and quickly gained attention for his arm strength, field vision, and athletic instincts. While traditional high school play presented some limitations, he developed enough skills to put himself on the national recruiting radar.

National Attention and Recruiting Buzz

The USC offer — which came long before most recruits even arrive in high school — placed Sills under a level of scrutiny and expectation rarely seen in youth sports. Media outlets profiled him as a future star, and recruiters watched closely as his career unfolded. While injuries and changes in school programs shifted his path, Sills’ unique early ascent remains a defining part of his story.

2. College Commitment and Early Career at WVU

Choosing West Virginia

Despite early promises and offers, Sills eventually committed to West Virginia University (WVU), joining the Mountaineers’ 2015 recruiting class. His early enrollment allowed him to participate in spring practice, where he competed for the starting quarterback job. Though he did not secure the role, Sills’ athleticism caught the attention of coaches on both sides of the ball. 

Transition to Wide Receiver

During his freshman year, coaches recognized his natural talent as a pass-catcher, and he was moved from quarterback to wide receiver. This transition was pivotal — it unlocked his potential and set the stage for an exceptional collegiate career. Sills debuted against Baylor with a strong performance and scored his first touchdown in that game. 

He also made the game-winning touchdown in the 2016 Cactus Bowl versus Arizona State — a moment that solidified his impact on the Mountaineers. 

El Camino College Detour

In pursuit of playing quarterback again, Sills briefly transferred to El Camino College in California in 2016. There, he threw for over 1,600 yards and 15 touchdowns, proving his abilities under center. But ultimately, the move reaffirmed that his future lay at receiver. 

He returned to WVU later that year and recommitted to the wide receiver position — a decision that paid major dividends.

3. Standout College Career at WVU

Once settled at receiver, Sills became one of college football’s most productive players, especially over his final two seasons.

Breakout in 2017

In 2017, Sills tied for first in the nation in touchdown receptions, hauling in 18 scores — an impressive feat that placed him among the elite receivers in college football. 

Highlights from that season included:

• 60 receptions

• 980 receiving yards

• 18 receiving touchdowns

• Numerous All-American honors and league recognition 

This performance not only showcased Sills’ hands and route ability but also his knack for finding the end zone in the most critical moments.

Dominance in 2018

In his senior season, Sills continued his excellence, earning All-Big 12 First-Team honors and multiple All-American selections. He recorded:

• 65 receptions for 986 yards

• 15 receiving touchdowns

• Led WVU in receptions, touchdowns, and total yardage 

Over his entire WVU career, Sills finished with 132 catches, 2,097 receiving yards and 35 career touchdowns — statistics that solidified him as one of the greatest receivers in Mountaineer history. 

He also holds the distinction of being the only player in WVU history to record at least 15 receiving touchdowns in more than one season. 

4. College Stats Breakdown

Below is a detailed look at Sills’ key collegiate performance metrics:

Sills consistently ranked among the top receivers in the Big 12 and the country, displaying remarkable consistency and playmaking ability throughout his college career. 

5. Professional Journey and Contract Details

NFL Career Entry

Despite his collegiate success and numerous accolades, Sills went undrafted in the 2019 NFL Draft. This was somewhat surprising given his production and experience, but it opened the door for free-agent opportunities.

He initially signed with the Buffalo Bills as an undrafted free agent, beginning his professional journey. Over time, Sills has spent time with multiple NFL organizations, including the New York Giants, Denver Broncos, and most recently, the Atlanta Falcons. 

Contract Highlights

According to player contract trackers, Sills signed a 1-year contract worth approximately $1,055,000 with the Denver Broncos in early 2024 — a testament to his continued perseverance and value as a professional receiver. 

In January 2025, the Atlanta Falcons signed him to a reserve/future contract, giving him another shot to compete and contribute at the professional level. 

NFL Performance

Across his NFL appearances, Sills has played in over 25 games, accumulating modest but meaningful stats while contributing on special teams and as a depth receiver:

• 16 receptions

• 146 receiving yards

• Appearances with multiple franchises 

This professional tenure reflects the challenges and competitiveness of the NFL — but also Sills’ resilience as a player who carved his own path.

6. Legacy and Impact

David Sills’ story is more than a list of statistics — it’s a narrative of adaptation, resilience, and redefining expectations. From his early hype as a middle school quarterback to reimagining his identity as a receiver at one of the top Power 5 programs, his journey teaches valuable lessons about flexibility and determination.

Whether inspiring young athletes to embrace change or reminding fans that success can take many forms, Sills has left an enduring legacy in college football and beyond.

7. FAQ — David Sills

Q: Where did David Sills go to high school?
A: David Sills attended Eastern Christian Academy in Maryland, where he played quarterback and earned national recruiting attention.

Q: Did David Sills ever play quarterback in college?
A: Yes, he initially joined WVU as a QB and later played that position at El Camino College before transitioning permanently to wide receiver. 

Q: What are David Sills’ college career stats?
A: Sills finished his WVU career with 132 receptions, 2,097 yards, and 35 touchdowns. 

Q: Was David Sills drafted into the NFL?
A: No, Sills went undrafted in 2019 but signed with the Buffalo Bills as a free agent and has since played for multiple NFL teams. 

Q: What NFL teams has David Sills been part of?
A: He has had stints with the Bills, Giants, Broncos, and signed a reserve/future contract with the Falcons in 2025. 

Q: What position does David Sills play?
A: He plays wide receiver in both college and the NFL after transitioning from quarterback earlier in his career.