Alex Collins, the former Arkansas, Seattle, and Baltimore running back, tragically passed away at the age of 28 on Sunday night after he was involved in a traffic accident in Florida. Ian Margol of WPLGLocal10 reported the news.
Collins was declared dead at the spot of the accident, with the Broward County Sheriff's Office making a news release confirming the death happened in a motorcycle crash.
The family of the late Collins released the following statement on Monday once the news was made public: "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."
With heavy hearts, we mourn the passing of Alex Collins. pic.twitter.com/IDywUZ8m73
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) August 15, 2023
The Baltimore Ravens published their own statement on the offical social networks and the official website of the franchise following the news, mourning the passing of Collins.
This is the statement published by the Ravens organization: "With heavy hearts, we mourn the passing of Alex Collins. Always quick to greet everyone with a smile, he was a genuinely kind person who carried a special joy and passion wherever he went. May Alex always be remembered for the light and love he brought to so many people in his life."
Coach John Harbaugh also shared his feelings after knowing about the news. "Alex was a joy to be around and someone whose light shined brightly. 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. We send our heartfelt condolences and support to Alex's family. May he now rest in God's eternal peace."
Collins was a fifth-round pick by the Seattle Seahawks in the 2016 NFL Draft. He played there as a rookie, then spent two years in Baltimore, and ultimately returned to Seattle to play two more campaigns following a one-year hiatus in 2019 as he was suspended by the commissioner for violating the league's personal conduct policy as well as receiving an 18-month sentence for possession of marijuana and a handgun.
The running back didn't play in 2022 and had a 50-game career split into his days in Seattle and Baltimore where he rushed for 1,997 yards and 18 touchdowns while racking up 467 receiving yards on 59 catches, including one for a touchdown.