UNLV Defensive Lineman Ryan Keeler Dies at 20

The school announced Keeler’s passing on Monday evening.

The UNLV football program announced Monday evening that defensive end Ryan Keeler had died. He was 20 years old.

Keeler had just completed his redshirt freshman season for the Rebels after transferring from Rutgers. A native of Chicago, he played in seven games during the 2022 season, recording his first career sack on Oct. 15 against Air Force.

“We are devastated to have lost a member of our Rebel family,” UNLV coach Barry Odom 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

Keeler’s former teammate, linebacker Austin Ajiake, spoke fondly of Keeler following news of his passing.

“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.”