Absolutely sad news has reached us this morning from the US where Alex Collins, a running back with the Seattle Seahawks and the Baltimore Ravens, has passed away aged 28.
Collins played for five years in the NFL. He gained notoriety in this country outside of hardcore NFL fans because of his touchdown celebration, which was an Irish jig.
His family released a statement saying:
"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."
He was amongst the NFL stars to visit Dublin as part of an NFL UK event in 2018, and got to sample some GAA on the visit.
Collins learned Irish dancing from a dance school in Florida, and used it as a means to stay fit and improve his mobility.
"I have my own little routine. I have my own hard shoes and everything. People made fun of me, and I’m like, ‘It helps with my footwork and my conditioning.’
.@Budda03 has a unique skill set for an NFL RB: Irish dancing
How it helps his footwork & makes him an inspiration: https://t.co/MkuZsog1NE pic.twitter.com/MxReW5TQiT— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) October 12, 2017
Collins said he got interested in step dancing when a mother reached out to him because her son was getting bullied for Irish dancing. He had a breakthrough in the 2016 season, where he unveiled his touchdown celebration to NFL fans.
Here was how he described it.
"Something quick and fancy, so that when the fans see, they know it is Irish dancing… but at the same time, I want to add a little jazz to it."
Collins was a star at the University of Arkansas before joining the NFL. Baltimore Ravens head coach Jim Harbaugh said he was a 'joy to be around' in a statement.
"Alex was a joy to be around and someone whose light shined brightly. 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."
Former teammate Russell Wilson lead the tributes on social media from NFL stars.
To one of my favorite teammates.
You brought joy to every huddle.
Keep Dancin’ in Heaven.
Love you AC. Forever missed. #RIP pic.twitter.com/X6dbhWzifH— Russell Wilson (@DangeRussWilson) August 15, 2023
