Arkansas release statement on death of Alex Collins

News of former Arkansas Razorbacks star RB Alex Collins’ death circulated around social media Monday night, and now his alma mater has commented on the tragic news.

“We are so saddened by the sudden and tragic passing of Alex Collins,” the post read. “He was a legendary Razorback and an even better person. His love for the Razorbacks and desire to be a Hog was undeniable. We will miss him greatly. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”

He is one of four running backs in SEC history to have rushed for 1,000 yards in three consecutive seasons. Collins went on to be drafted in the fifth round of the 2016 NFL Draft by the Seattle Seahawks. He last played in the NFL in 2021 and compiled 1,997 total rushing yards and 18 touchdowns.

Collins only spent one season in Seattle before moving on to play for the Baltimore Ravens. During his first season with his new squad, Collins nearly reached the 1,000-yard mark in 2017 having taken 212 rushes for 973 yards — both of which were career highs. He likely would have surpassed that mark but he ended up playing in 15 of the Ravens’ 16 games during the regular season.

He would never play a full season after that, and saw his numbers decline. In both 2018 with the Ravens and 2021 when he returned to Seattle, he managed to rush for exactly 411 yards both times.

Still, he left an impression in Baltimore, and Ravens head coach John Harbaugh released a statement of his own on the matter.

“Alex was a joy to be around and someone whose light shined brightly,” Harbaugh said. “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.”

After his time in the NFL, Collins spent time in the USFL playing for the Memphis Showboats until May of this year.

He left an ever-lasting mark on the game, as well as Arkansas and SEC record books. Hogs faithful will never forget 4th & 25 against Ole Miss in overtime. Memories like that always last forever.