Former Seahawks Ravens RB Alex Collins dies at age 28 in motorcycle accident

Former Seattle Seahawks and Baltimore Ravens Alex Collins has passed away at the age of 28, the Collins family announced Monday.

The Broward County Sheriff’s Office announced that Collins was involved in a fatal motorcycle crash Sunday night in Lauderdale Lakes, Florida. Detectives with the Broward Sheriff’s Office Traffic Homicide Unit are investigating the crash.

Investigators said the Chevrolet Suburban SUV driven by an unidentified woman turned left to travel south to Northwest 33rd Avenue, and as the vehicle crossed the eastern lanes, a motorcycle driven by Collins crashed into the rear passenger side of the SUV.

Collins was pronounced dead at the scene, and the SUV driver remained at the scene and cooperated with the investigation, according to the sheriff’s office.

“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the death of our beloved Alex Collins this morning,” his family said in a statement. Alex was cherished by his family and friends as well as supporters from around the world. Everyone who truly knew him can attest to his drive, determination, and larger-than-life personality.

We ask for your kind thoughts and prayers for our family at this difficult time. We ask for privacy as we navigate through our grief. We will provide updates on funeral arrangements as they become available.”

Collins spent two seasons with the Ravens in 2017 and 2018 before re-signing with the Seahawks in 2020. He spent the 2016, 2020, and 2021 seasons with Seattle, and most recently played with the Memphis Showboats in the USFL.

“(Collins) was always quick to greet everyone with a smile, he was a truly sweet person who brought a special joy and passion wherever he went,” the Ravens said in a statement. “I hope Alex will always remember the light and love he brought to so many people in his life.”

Collins had 483 carries for 1,997 yards and 18 rushing touchdowns through 50 NFL games, adding 59 catches and 1 touchdown.

He was a fifth round pick by the Seahawks out of Arkansas in the 2016 NFL Draft. Fort Lauderdale, Florida, ranks second all-time in Razorbacks history for career rushing yards (3,703).

Collins’ time in Baltimore

Collins had his best year in Baltimore in 2017 and he came out of nowhere. They signed him to their practice squad after he was released by the Seahawks. He ended up leading the team with 973 rushing yards to go along with six touchdowns in 15 games. He had such a physical style of running and played with such enthusiasm.

His breakthrough was very interesting to watch. His hobbies included Irish dancing and he did some dance moves. He was a revelation that year, even though he always seemed uncomfortable talking about himself. He avoided interviews, and when he spoke, he often wore his helmet.

He had a unique personality and became a popular player during his short time in Baltimore. – Zrebek

What I will remember about Alex Collins

Collins’ college recruit from South Plantation High School in 2013 was one of the wildest I’ve covered as a reporter for the Miami Herald. On the day of the signing, his mother refused to sign a National Letter of Intent to attend school in Arkansas and ran away with papers because she wanted him to stay close to home and attend the University of Miami.

The next day, Collins’ father signed the papers so he could attend Arkansas, where he ran for 1,026 yards and four touchdowns and was named to the SEC Freshman Team. Collins was a warm, loving high school soul and remained loyal to his high school coach, Doug Gatewood, despite overtures to other local high school authorities. – Navarro

(Photo: Steph Chambers/Getty Images)