“Gone Way Too Soon”: Football World Unites at the Death of 20 Y/O Division 1 NCAAF Player

A UNLV student-athlete passed away in Las Vegas. The college announced the news of the tragic death of the redshirt freshman football. Ryan Keeler was twenty years old and from Chicago. He played the position of a defensive lineman for the team. Although he died in Las Vegas, the college disclosed no news surrounding his death.

Keeler started his college career at Rutgers. But he transferred to UNLV after his freshman season in 2022. Many teammates of his honored him by posting his pictures. They remembered him. As per TMZ, Rebels coach Barry Odom said, “While I had the honor of knowing Ryan for only a couple of months, he already stood out to our coaching staff as an incredible person, student, and teammate. Our condolences and prayers go out to Ryan’s family as we grieve along with them over this tremendous loss.” 

Fans also reacted to the post that Rebels’ defensive lineman, Adam Plant Jr., posted. Many were surprised because the 6-foot-5-inch player did not suffer from any physical issues.

College football fans pay their respects to the late young player

The news came at an unexpected time because Keeler was in good physical health.

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Although the reason behind his death is still not found, the details will come out soon. Fans reacted to the heartbreaking news.

A fan could relate with Plant as they also lost their swimming teammate.

His former linebacker friend, Austin Ajiake, spoke about Keeler. He had positive words for his late friend. “Ryan was definitely preparing for a big year this year, but more important than that he was honestly a great person,” Ajiake said, per FOX5’s Paloma Villicana. “Never complained, had a great attitude, showed up and worked every day. He was the kind of teammate you wanted around you … I am broken for his family and offer them my condolences and prayers,” he added.

Last season, Keeler played in seven games for UNLV and had eight tackles and one sack. With a 3.8 GPA, he received academic All-Mountain West recognition. Therefore, he received many scholarship offers after graduating from high school. He was also considered a division 1 NCAAF player and was studying business.

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