Former Arkansas and NFL running back Alex Collins has died as a result of a motorcycle accident. He was 28.

Collins’ death was announced Monday by Collins’ family through the Seattle Seahawks, for whom he played three of his five NFL seasons. Miami’s WPLG-TV is reporting that the accident occurred late Sunday in Lauderdale Lakes, Fla., which is near Collins’ hometown of Fort Lauderdale.

“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Alex Collins this morning,” the statement read. “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.”

Arkansas, for whom Collins starred from 2013-15, posted the following statement on social media:

“We are so saddened by the sudden and tragic passing of Alex Collins. 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.”

A five-star recruit in the 2013 signing class, Collins rushed for 3,703 yards and 36 touchdowns during his three-year Arkansas career. He became the third SEC running back to eclipse the 1,000-yard mark three straight times, joining Georgia’s Herschel Walker (1980-82) and fellow Razorback Darren McFadden (2005-07).

Collins ran for 1,577 yards and a school-record 20 touchdowns as a junior in 2015. Late that season, he was involved in a wild play during overtime of a game vs. Ole Miss, in which he scooped up a blind lateral from teammate Hunter Henry and ran for a first down on fourth-and-25.

The Razorbacks later scored a touchdown and added a two-point conversion to win 53-52. The Arkansas win helped Alabama win the SEC West championship and, eventually, the national title.

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Collins left school after that season to enter the NFL draft, and was a fifth-round pick of the Seahawks. He played five seasons in the league with the Seahawks and the Baltimore Ravens, totaling 1,997 yards and 18 touchdowns.

“Alex was a joy to be around and someone whose light shined brightly,” Ravens coach John Harbaugh said in a statement. “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. We send our heartfelt condolences and support to Alex’s family. May he now rest in God’s eternal peace.”

Said Seahawks general manager John Schneider: “The Seahawks family along with the 12s are so saddened to hear of Alex’s passing. 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 was out of football in 2022, but returned to the sport with the USFL’s Memphis Showboats this past spring. His season ended due to injury in early May.