Arkansas head coach Sam Pittman sends message to family of Alex Collins following his death

Arkansas Football lost an incredible player in their program’s history, with running back Alex Collins passing away on Sunday night. Although he spent just three seasons in Fayetteville, the on-field productions from Collins were historic. Of course, everyone has remembered the running back from his off-the-field personality.

Current head coach Sam Pittman was the latest, sending out thoughts and prayers to Collins’ family on Monday night. He said Collins loved the Arkansas program and it was reciprocated. A true loss for everyone in Fayetteville.

“Alex Collins was such a wonderful person and loved the Razorbacks and we loved him too,” Pittman said via Twitter. “Our thoughts are with his family and his teammates and the entire Razorback Nation. RIP #3.”

Pittman and Collins were on campus for the exact same period of time, being with Arkansas from the 2013 to 2015 season. Collins, of course, was a running back and a really good one at that. Pittman was coaching the offensive line while also serving as the assistant head coach under head coach Bret Bielema.

With the help of Pittman’s offensive line, Collins was able to accomplish something just four players in the history of the SEC ever have. Collins rushed for over 1,000 yards in all three seasons he played with the Razorbacks. He also is the second-leading rusher in program history, only sitting behind Darren McFadden.

After the 2015 season, the duo went their separate ways. Pittman went on to accomplish great things at Georgia before coming back to be Arkansas’ head coach. Collins enjoyed some time in the NFL before wrapping up his professional football career in the USFL.

However, they will always be linked for the great rushing attacks over the course of three seasons.

Arkansas Football remembers Alex Collins

The official Arkansas Football account sent out its own remembrance of Collins, separate from Pittman. However, the message was the same. Both tweets spoke highly of Collins as a player and a person. Support for the family has come from everyone involved with the program.

“We are so saddened by the sudden and tragic passing of Alex Collins,” the tweet said on Monday night. “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. #RIP3“