Former NFL Running Back Alex Collins Killed in Motorcycle Crash at 28
LOS ANGELES (KTTV) – Former NFL running back Alex Collins tragically passed away over the weekend in a motorcycle crash. The Baltimore Ravens, Collins’ former team, was among the first to announce his death on social media. Officials in Broward County, Florida confirmed that Collins lost his life in the accident, which occurred in Lauderdale Lakes on Sunday night.
According to the Broward County Sheriff’s Office, the incident took place on West Oakland Park Boulevard after 10:15 p.m. Sunday. Early investigations revealed that Collins was riding a 2004 Suzuki GSX-R600K motorcycle when he collided with a Chevrolet Suburban SUV. The Sheriff’s Office stated that the SUV was attempting to make a left turn across the eastbound lanes when the motorcycle struck its rear passenger side. Tragically, Collins succumbed to his injuries at the scene of the accident.
Collins, who played college football for the Arkansas Razorbacks, enjoyed a five-season career in the NFL. He spent three seasons with the Seattle Seahawks, who drafted him in the 5th round of the 2016 NFL Draft, and another two seasons with the Baltimore Ravens.
The Seattle Seahawks also expressed their condolences in response to Collins’ passing. Geno Smith, Collins’ teammate during the 2020 and 2021 seasons, shared his grief on social media, saying, “Life is so crazy man. Fly high my boy until we meet again. AK all the way.”
During his NFL career, Collins became known for his Irish jig touchdown celebration dance. In an interview with CBS Evening News, he revealed that he had learned the dance from the daughter of his high school football coach. Despite facing teasing for his dance moves, Collins credited the Irish jig with improving his footwork and enhancing his performance on the field.
In a heartwarming gesture, Collins once sent words of encouragement to a 12-year-old boy who was being bullied for studying the Irish dance. He urged the young boy to continue pursuing his passion, stating, “Never stop doing the things you love because someone else doesn’t agree.” The friendship between Collins and the young boy, Carl Tubbs, inspired and motivated Tubbs to continue his pursuit of the dance.
The sudden passing of Alex Collins has sent shockwaves through the NFL community, as fans, teammates, and friends mourn the loss of the talented athlete. His contributions on and off the field will be remembered, and his infectious spirit will be dearly missed.