UNLV football suffered a heartbreaking loss when senior offensive lineman Ben Christman was found dead in his off-campus apartment on February 11, 2025. He was 21 years old. The official report, released three months after his passing, confirmed that Ben died due to heart disease and an irregular heartbeat. The sudden death of such a young athlete stunned the college football world.
Ben transferred to UNLV earlier in the year, and although he had only just joined the program, he quickly became known and respected by his teammates and coaches. His previous stints at Ohio State and Kentucky made him a notable name in college football circles. UNLV, along with the broader football community, continues to mourn his passing.
Clark County Coroner Confirms Heart Disease and Arrhythmia as Cause
The Clark County Coroner’s Office confirmed that Ben Christman died due to heart disease and an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia). The findings, officially released in May 2025, came after thorough medical examination. Arrhythmias are often silent, but in rare cases, especially in otherwise healthy young people, they can be fatal. The university and Christman’s family had awaited these results since February.
Heart conditions such as arrhythmias are difficult to predict in young athletes, even during routine sports physicals. The announcement from the coroner provided answers but did little to lessen the pain felt throughout the UNLV community.
Official reports emphasized there was no evidence of drug use or foul play. The findings focused solely on natural causes, reinforcing the shocking nature of Ben’s sudden passing.
Timeline of Ben Christman’s College Football Career
Ben Christman was a highly ranked prospect in the 2021 recruiting class, drawing national attention as a top offensive line recruit. He began his college journey at Ohio State, where he redshirted during his first season. In 2022, Christman made his on-field debut, though he appeared in only one game for the Buckeyes.
After his time at Ohio State, Ben transferred to Kentucky. Unfortunately, a knee injury kept him off the field during the 2023 season, forcing him to miss out on what could have been a breakout year. Despite this setback, his work ethic and positive influence in the locker room remained strong.
In 2024, Ben returned to regular action, playing on special teams in all 12 games for Kentucky. His commitment and grit were evident, regardless of his role or the adversities he faced. At the end of the season, Ben transferred again, this time to UNLV, seeking another chance to make an impact both on and off the field.
The senior lineman was determined to help push UNLV forward in his final year of eligibility. Sadly, his promising football journey was cut short by his untimely death.
Initial Reactions After Christman’s Passing
The immediate reaction on campus and in the football community was one of deep shock and sadness. Teammates, coaches, and fans learned the news with disbelief as they recalled Ben’s short but meaningful time at UNLV. Social media tributes poured in from former teammates at Ohio State and Kentucky, expressing their condolences and sharing stories about Ben’s positive spirit.
UNLV issued a statement soon after the news broke, offering condolences to the Christman family. The football team gathered privately to remember Ben, and the university provided counseling and support resources for students and staff impacted by the tragedy.
Within hours, tributes spread across college football. Both Ohio State and Kentucky football programs publicly honored Ben, pausing practices to observe moments of silence and changing their social media profile photos. Players from across the nation sent messages of support.
The loss also sparked broader conversations about athlete health and wellness, reminding programs nationwide of the unpredictable nature of life and the importance of vigilance even with regular screenings and checkups.
Transfer Journey: From Ohio State to Kentucky to UNLV
Ben Christman’s career involved multiple transfers, each reflecting a new chapter and a fresh start. Recruited by major programs out of high school, Ben’s collegiate journey showcased the challenges and mobility common in modern college football.
- Started at Ohio State (2021 – redshirted)
- Transferred to Kentucky (2022 – limited play, 2023 – injured)
- Transferred to UNLV (2025)
The NCAA’s changes to transfer rules allowed Ben and other athletes to seek the best situations for their development and playing time. These moves are not always easy; they often mean starting over socially and athletically. Yet, Ben was described as handling every transfer with maturity and dedication, never letting setbacks define his attitude.
Each stop in Ben’s career demonstrated his readiness to adapt and his continual effort to contribute wherever he landed. At every program, he quickly earned the trust of coaches and teammates. His journey highlights the unpredictable and often challenging paths faced by college athletes today.
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Despite the challenges of transferring, Ben turned each opportunity into a chance to learn, grow, and prove his worth.
Role on the Field and Off: Christman as a Teammate and Leader
Ben Christman’s play was defined by determination and the willingness to do the work, no matter the circumstances. Although much of his field time came on special teams, his reputation as a great teammate and leader was evident from the beginning.
At UNLV, Ben was quickly selected for the Rebels’ leadership committee, a recognition of the high esteem he held among players and coaches. Despite being new to the campus, he made an immediate impact by fostering a positive environment and encouraging younger players through words and example.
Ben brought the same strong work ethic and attitude that had marked his former teams. He was often one of the first to arrive for meetings and voluntary workouts, demonstrating reliability and a drive to succeed. His willingness to mentor others reinforced his value to every roster he joined.
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Teammates cited Ben’s humility and integrity as defining characteristics. On the field and in the locker room, he was approachable, supportive, and quick to include newer teammates in group activities. It’s clear why he was such a valued presence even during brief stints at each program.
Coach Dan Mullen and Team Reactions to the Loss
Coach Dan Mullen, in his public statement, expressed that the entire UNLV football family was heartbroken by Ben’s sudden passing. Mullen described Ben as someone who “made the Rebels a better program” in just the few weeks he’d been on campus. This speaks volumes about Ben’s immediate impact.
“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.” – Coach Dan Mullen
Players echoed Mullen’s words, sharing anecdotes of Ben’s quick adaptation and his dedication to building team camaraderie. The coaching staff met with the team soon after the news, providing space for everyone to share memories and grieve together.
Coach Mullen spoke about Ben’s influence on the team’s culture, saying his example would remain an inspiration to current and future players. The program plans to honor Ben’s memory with a season-long tribute, which will be discussed further as the team finalizes details.
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Players and coaches alike pointed out that Ben’s motivation and positivity will carry forward, setting a standard for how to approach both football and life.
Ben Christman’s Legacy Within College Football
Though his playing time was limited at Ohio State, Kentucky, and UNLV, Ben Christman’s legacy lies in the way he carried himself and uplifted others around him. He was remembered as a player who embodied sportsmanship, resilience, and the kind of quiet leadership that resonates in a locker room.
Ben’s story is one of perseverance – dealing with injuries, multiple transfers, and always looking for the next way to contribute. Teammates from each stop in his college career have spoken about how Ben’s positive energy and willingness to face adversity made him stand out.
His legacy also includes advocacy for athlete health after his passing. Coaches have begun using Ben as an example when talking about the importance of health checkups and mental wellness for players. His story prompts conversations about supporting student-athletes through all aspects of their college experience, not just on the field.
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Ben Christman will be remembered in college football circles for what he brought to each team and for the connections he made along the way. The impact of a player is not always measured on the scoreboard, but by the lasting impression they leave on those who knew them.
Heart Conditions Among Young Athletes: Risks and Prevention
Ben Christman’s passing sheds light on heart conditions among young athletes, a concern for parents, coaches, and medical professionals alike. Conditions like arrhythmia and underlying heart disease are rare but can have devastating outcomes if undetected.
Standard athletic physicals can miss certain cardiac anomalies unless there is specific testing like EKG or echocardiography. Many colleges have increased their focus on cardiac screening in response to high-profile incidents. However, even with thorough protocols, some heart conditions may remain asymptomatic until a fatal event.
Nationally, sudden cardiac deaths among athletes, while still uncommon, continue to raise the issue of more comprehensive testing and emergency preparedness at sporting events. The NCAA and sports medicine professionals continue to study and recommend strategies that include:
- Greater cardiac screening and awareness during annual physicals
- Access to automated external defibrillators (AEDs) at all training facilities
- Ongoing education for coaches and staff regarding symptoms and response protocols
Ben’s story is now part of a broader effort to support the health and safety of young athletes nationwide, prompting schools to review their protocols and invest more in detection and prevention methods.
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Impact on the UNLV Football Program Moving Forward
The loss of Ben Christman leaves a significant void in the UNLV football program, both emotionally and practically. Teammates are still processing the grief, and coaches are working closely with players to help them heal while preparing for the upcoming season.
UNLV plans to honor Ben throughout the year, possibly with a helmet sticker, jersey patch, or a pregame moment of silence before their first home game. These touches will serve as a reminder of Ben’s value and the importance of community within the team.
The tragedy also forces the program to look at its own health protocols and support structures. The coaching staff is reviewing procedures for monitoring player health, emphasizing open communication about medical symptoms, no matter how minor they appear.
The entire athletic department is banding together to provide emotional support, organizing optional counseling sessions, and creating spaces for players and staff to remember Ben and lean on each other. The sense of brotherhood and support is expected to help guide the program through its recovery.
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Moving forward, Ben Christman’s memory will power the Rebels’ resolve, serving as a reminder of the fragility and value of every member of the football family.
Tributes and Support for the Christman Family
Tributes for Ben Christman have come in from across the college football landscape. Former teammates from Ohio State, Kentucky, and UNLV shared their personal memories, highlighting Ben’s kindness and generosity. Social media has been filled with messages from fans, coaches, and other athletes.
UNLV and both of Ben’s former programs have offered direct support to the Christman family, including grief counseling, logistical assistance, and public recognition of Ben’s impact. Fundraisers and memorial campaigns have been launched to honor Ben’s legacy and assist his family during this difficult time.
A memorial service is planned near Ben’s hometown, with teammates and coaches from all three colleges expected to attend. Many plan to share stories that reflect Ben’s unselfish nature and commitment to helping others, even outside of football.
The Christman family has asked for privacy as they mourn but has shared their gratitude for the overwhelming love and support. The strength of the football community continues to provide comfort as they honor Ben’s memory and the positive mark he left on so many.
