Former Nazareth Academy football player Ryan Keeler died on Monday, UNLV said in a statement. He was 20. Keeler, who transferred to UNLV from Rutgers, was a defensive lineman for the Rebels.
As a redshirt freshman last season, Keeler played in seven games. He made his first start in October in a game against Air Force where he recorded seven tackles and a sack.
“We are devastated to have lost a member of our Rebel family,” UNLV football head coach Barry Odom, who was hired in December, said in a statement. “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.”
UNLV Mourns Passing Of Football Student-Athlete Ryan Keelerhttps://t.co/wn1xtKZ0OZ pic.twitter.com/1Z4pOyrP0F
— UNLV Football (@unlvfootball) February 21, 2023
“My heart hurts with the loss of Ryan Keeler,” former UNLV defensive line coach Bojay Filimoeatu said on Twitter. “You were a great young man and one of the hardest workers I have coached. I will forever cherish the time we had together my man. My prayers are with your beautiful family and teammates. Ofa Lahi Atu @ryankeeler71 #FlyHigh47”
“Long Live Ryan Keeler gone way too soon I’m lost for words right now love you forever brother,” fellow defensive lineman Adam Plant Jr. wrote on Twitter with a black heart and dove emoji.
Keeler transferred to UNLV from Rutgers in the 2022 offseason. Rutgers and Nazareth both paid tribute to their former player on social media.
“We love you, Ryan,” Rutgers football said on Twitter.
“There are no words. Our hearts are heavy. God bless the Keeler family. We love you Ryan,” the high school’s football team posted.
There are no words. Our hearts are heavy. God bless the Keeler family. We love you Ryan. pic.twitter.com/Znro5j75UV
— Nazareth Academy Football (@FootballNaz) February 21, 2023
Keeler was majoring in pre-business and was an Academic All-Mountain West honoree with a 3.80 GPA.
No cause of death has been announced.
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