Ben Christman, a 21-year-old offensive lineman for college football, passed away. On Wednesday, February 12, the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, where Christman had recently transferred, announced the student-athlete’s passing.
Christman was discovered deceased in an off-campus apartment early on Tuesday, February 11, the institution said in a statement. No other information regarding the situation was given. According to UNLV, the Clark County Coroner’s Office will disclose the cause of death later.
In a statement, UNLV head football coach Dan Mullen said: “Our team’s heart is broken to hear of Ben’s passing,” “Since the day Ben set foot on our campus a month ago, he made the Rebels a better program. Ben was an easy choice for our Leadership Committee as he had earned the immediate respect, admiration and friendship of all his teammates. Our prayers go out to his family and all who knew him. Ben made the world a better place and he will be missed.”
After starting his college career at Ohio State, Christman went to UNLV and made one appearance for the Buckeyes in 2022.
Statements on Ben Christman by UNLV President and Sports Director
After missing the whole 2023 season due to a ruptured ACL, Christman went to Kentucky and played in all 12 special teams games for the Wildcats in 2024.
In a statement, UNLV sports director Erick Harper said: “We are heartbroken by the sudden passing of Ben Christman, a new member of our football program and UNLV community,” “Ben recently joined us as a transfer student and had already made a meaningful impact on his teammates and coaches. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and teammates during this extremely difficult time. Counseling services are being provided for anyone in need.”
Keith E. Whitfield, president of UNLV, stated: “There is little that can be said to lessen the pain of suddenly losing a member of our university family at such a young age, and my heart breaks for all who knew and loved him. On behalf of UNLV, our sincere condolences are with Ben’s family, friends, loved ones, and teammates during this very difficult time.”
Following leg surgery in August 2023, Christman shared a photo on Instagram from his hospital bed.
