Alex Collins, a former running back for the Baltimore Ravens and Seattle Seahawks, passed away on Sunday night, the two teams said on Monday. He was 28.
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Alex Collins this morning,” Collins’ family said in a statement through the Seahawks. “Alex was cherished by his family and friends, as well as supporters from all around the world. All who truly know him can attest to his drive, determination, and larger-than-life personality.
“We kindly request your thoughts and prayers for our family during this difficult time. We ask for privacy as we navigate through our grief.”
According to the Broward County Sheriff’s Office, Collins passed away as a consequence of a motorbike accident that occurred on Sunday night near Lauderdale Lakes, Florida. According to the authorities, an SUV began to turn left, and Collins’ motorcycle struck the back passenger side of the SUV as it crossed the eastbound lanes.
Collins’ demise was confirmed on the spot. The collision is being looked into.
“The Seahawks family along with the 12s are so saddened to hear of Alex’s passing,” Seahawks general manager John Schneider said in a statement. “Alex’s infectious smile and classic river dance skills will forever be missed. Alex would light up a room and was beloved by our entire building. He enjoyed life and attacked it on the football field. He was one of the most productive runners in SEC history.”
After an impressive career at Arkansas, Collins was taken by the Seahawks in the fifth round of the 2016 NFL Draft.
Collins subsequently played for the Seahawks for one season before being released by Seattle the following year, which led to his arrival in Baltimore.
Collins spent two seasons as a member of the Ravens and recorded a career-high 973 running yards in 2017. Before leaving the organization after the 2018 season, he amassed around 1,400 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns while seeing regular playing time.
In 2020 and 2021, he made a brief trip back to Seattle to put an end to his NFL career. He racked up 1,997 yards and 19 total league touchdowns while running.
Collins most recently participated in USFL action earlier this spring with the Memphis Showboats. His campaign was cut short, and in May he was placed on injured reserve.
Alex was a joy to be around and someone whose light shined brightly,” Ravens coach John Harbaugh said in a statement. “I’ll always remember him for being a great teammate who had an uplifting spirit that impacted everyone he encountered. He was also a smart player who ran with unlimited determination, and he contributed to a lot of our success during his time in Baltimore.”
