Former Seahawks and Ravens running back Alex Collins dies in motorcycle crash

     The NFL community is mourning the loss of former running back Alex Collins, who played for the Seattle Seahawks and the Baltimore Ravens. Collins, who was 28 years old, died on Sunday night after his motorcycle collided with an SUV in Lauderdale Lakes, Florida, according to the Broward County Sheriff’s Office.

      The accident happened around 11:30 p.m. on West Oakland Park Boulevard, when Collins’ motorcycle hit the rear passenger side of an SUV. Collins was thrown through the rear passenger side window and died at the scene, investigators said.

      Collins’ family released a statement via the Seahawks on Monday night, expressing their grief and asking for privacy.

“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.”

      Collins was a fifth-round draft pick by the Seahawks in 2016 out of the University of Arkansas. He played one season with Seattle before joining the Ravens’ practice squad in 2017. He became the starter for Baltimore that year and rushed for 973 yards and six touchdowns. He started 10 games in 2018, rushing for 411 yards and seven touchdowns before a foot injury ended his season.

     He did not play in 2019 but returned to the Seahawks in 2020-2021 for his final NFL stint. He played in 50 career games, totaling 1,997 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns, along with 467 receiving yards.

     Most recently, Collins played with the Memphis Showboats of the United States Football League this past season.

“Alex was a joy to be around and someone whose light shined brightly,” Ravens head 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. We send our heartfelt condolences and support to Alex’s family. May he now rest in God’s eternal peace.”