Seahawks Remember Alex Collins
The Seahawks organization is mourning the death of Alex Collins, a beloved teammate and fan favorite during his two tenures with the team.
Collins, 28, passed away on Monday as the result of a motorcycle accident.
"It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Alex Collins this morning," Collins' family said in a statement. "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. We will provide updates regarding funeral arrangements as they become available."
"The Seahawks family along with the 12s are so saddened to hear of Alex's passing," Seahawks executive VP/general manager John Schneider said. "Alex's infectious smile and classic river dance skills will forever be missed. Alex would light up a room and was beloved by our entire building. He enjoyed life and attacked it on the football field. He was one of the most productive runners in SEC history. Our sincere condolences to his immediate family, the Gatewood family, and his agent Kelli Masters. You will be forever be missed, Alex. On behalf of Jody Allen, Pete Carroll, Chuck Arnold, Chad Morton and the entire Seahawks community, rest in peace brother."
Collins joined the Seahawks in 2016 as a fifth-round pick, then after spending time in Baltimore, returned to Seattle in 2020 and 2021, earning praise from teammates and coaches alike as he helped spark the running game.
"He's got a great spirit that he brings to the team," Seahawks coach Pete Carroll said in 2021. "He's doing really well. I'm fired up about him."
Collins also became a fan favorite in Seattle for his big smile and joyful demeanor, as well as his signature Irish dance touchdown celebration, a nod to the activity he took up prior to his NFL career to improve his footwork.
Collins, a Fort Lauderdale, Florida native, attended Arkansas after a standout career at South Plantation High School, and as Carroll loved to highlight when talking about Collins, he was one of three players in SEC history to rush for more than 1,000 yards in three consecutive seasons.