The sports world received tragic news today as former NFL running back Alex Collins passed away after a motorcycle incident in Lauderdale Lakes, Florida. He was 28 years old.
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Alex Collins this morning,” Collins’ family said in a statement released through the Seattle Seahawks, for whom he had played three seasons. “Alex was treasured by his family and friends as well as supporters from all around the world. All who truly know him can attest to his endurance, willpower, and unparalleled personality.”
The family asked for privacy during this time of grief and requested that people offer their “thoughts and prayers for [their] family”. Information regarding funeral arrangements will be made available in the near future.
NFL family in mourning as former 5th-round pick Alex Collins of the Seahawks and Ravens is killed in horrific motorcycle accident.
The National Football League family is in mourning Monday as the news of the tragic death of former 5th-round pick Alex Collins of the Seahawks and Ravens becomes known. Collins, who would have celebrated his 29th birthday on Aug. 28, was pronounced dead on the scene after a horrific collision with a Chevrolet Suburban at 10:20 p.m. ET Sunday night.
According to the police report, Collins had been traveling eastbound on a 2004 Suzuki GSX-R600K motorcycle when the driver of the Suburban attempted to turn left onto South Northwest 33rd Ave. The motorcycle collided with the rear passenger side of the SUV with such impact that it caused Collins to be thrown into the vehicle itself. The circumstances of the crash are still under investigation.
Collins had played 50 career games in five seasons (29 starts), producing 483 carries for 1,997 yards and 18 touchdowns from scrimmage, along with 467 receiving yards and additionally, winning many fans over with his trademark post-touchdown Irish jig routine. The NFL released a statement expressing its sorrow and condolences for his family, teammates, and loved ones.
Alex Collins’ passing has come as a shock to both the Seattle Seahawks and the Baltimore Ravens, the teams to whom he traveled during his professional football career. Known for bringing “infectious smiles” and his signature river dance skills to any room he entered, Collins was beloved by teammates and all who knew him.
His best season was in 2017 with the Ravens, when he recorded career-highs with 973 rushing yards and six touchdowns. He capped off his playing career in 2021 with Seattle, but not before spending this Spring in the USFL with the Memphis Showboats. Collins ended the season there when he was placed on Injured Reserve in May.
John Harbaugh, head coach of the Ravens, expressed his admiration for Alex Collins, noting that “he was someone whose light shined brightly” and that his uplifting spirit had an impact on those who encountered him. A difficult loss for the NFL, Alex’s legacy will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of many