LAUDERDALE LAKES, Fla. – Former NFL running back Alex Collins died in a motorcycle crash Sunday in Florida, according to the Broward County Sheriff’s Office. He was 28.
The crash occurred at about 10:20 p.m. in Lauderdale Lakes, Florida, when Collins was driving his motorcycle and collided into an SUV making a left turn. Collins struck the rear passenger side of the SUV, and the impact caused him to enter the rear passenger window of the vehicle and “come to a final rest inside the car,” according to a news release.
Collins was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency responders. The driver of the SUV remained on scene following the crash and cooperated with authorities, according to the release.
The circumstances surrounding the crash are under investigation.
“Alex was cherished by his family and friends as well as supporters from all around the world,” Collins’ family said in a statement Monday night. “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. We will provide updates regarding funeral arrangements as they become available.”
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Collins, a five-year NFL veteran who last played in 2021, was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the fifth round of the 2016 NFL Draft. The former Arkansas standout spent one season in Seattle before joining the Baltimore Ravens in 2017. Collins had his career-best season that year, making 12 starts and rushing for 973 yards and six touchdowns on 212 carries. He also recorded 23 receptions for 187 yards.
Collins spent one more season in Baltimore in 2018, starting all 10 games he played in. He didn’t play in 2019 but returned to the Seahawks for the 2020 and 2021 seasons. Most recently, he played for the United States Football League’s Memphis Showboats during the 2023 spring season.
He finished his NFL career having started 29 of 50 games played, recording 483 carries for 1,997 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns, along with 59 receptions for 467 yards and one touchdown.
“With heavy hearts, we mourn the passing of Alex Collins,” the Ravens said in a tweet. “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.”
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The Seahawks also issued a statement on Collins’ death, with executive vice president and general manager John Schneider saying, “Alex would light up a room and was beloved by our entire building.”
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