Skip to main content
Join Now

UNLV announces death of football player at off-campus residence

ns_headshot_2024-clearby:Nick Schultz•02/11/25•

NickSchultz_7

dayton-and-unlv-basketball-game-on-wednesday-night-cancelled-due-to-shooting-on-unlv-campus
Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

UNLV announced the death of a football player at their off-campus residence. The name of the player was not released.

“UNLV Athletics was notified earlier today of the passing of a student-athlete who was a member of the football team at their off-campus residence,” the university said in a statement. “This is an extremely difficult day for our athletics department and the university community. Out of respect for the student’s family and pending formal notification of next of kin by the Clark County Coroner’s Office, the university has no further information to share at this time.

“The University is providing mental health and related support services to those in need. The cause of death will be released by the Clark County Coroner’s office.”

UNLV underwent a coaching change this offseason as Barry Odom departed to become the head coach at Purdue. The Rebels put together another impressive year, making the Mountain West Championship game once again and finishing 11-3 overall.

The program then brought Dan Mullen out of the ESPN booth and back to the sidelines to replace Odom as head coach. He was active in the transfer portal after taking over in Las Vegas. The Rebels have 40 players coming in next season, including 25 out of the portal. That group two quarterbacks in Anthony Colandrea and Alex Orji.

Mullen spent three years with ESPN after leaving Florida, and he argued that time on TV helped him as he transitions back to coaching. He said he watched film on players across the sport, leading him to some hidden gems.

“We actually got two [quarterbacks] – Anthony Colandrea from UVA, that I’ve seen make a ton of plays, and Alex Orji,” Mullen said. “The greatest thing you have being at ESPN, I’ve gotten to watch everybody play. You sit in that room all day, and I’m watching every game in college football. I’ve seen them all.

“I got to watch Anthony live. His ability to extend plays, scramble around, throw the ball, tremendous arm talent. Really excited about what he brings to the table. Alex Orji, he’s undefeated against Ohio State. He’s won.”