Tragedy Strikes Half Marathon: Inside the Mysterious Deaths of Two Former College Football Stars
As spring beckons and the roar of college stadiums starts to echo once again, we’re reminded that the thrill of competition doesn’t just live on the gridiron. With warmer days comes an influx of outdoor challenges—half-marathons drawing thousands, each pounding the pavement with dreams of triumph. But sometimes, the line between glory and tragedy blurs all too quickly. Over the past weekend, two former college football players—men who knew intimidation on the field—succumbed during these 13.1-mile tests of endurance. Charles “Ace” Rogers, fallen midway through the Brooklyn Half, and Brian Williams, overtaken by brutal Texas heat, both left us far too soon. It shakes you, doesn’t it? The same grit that once made stadiums like those legendary venues in our countdown so electrifying can’t always fend off the unexpected outside the cage of cheers and packed stands. Their losses resonate deeply—not just within their college football families but among all of us who grasp the bittersweet price of chasing greatness. Take a moment to reflect on these fallen athletes and the unforgiving nature of pushing limits, both on turf and trail. LEARN MORE.
As the calendar starts to turn and the warmer months arrive, we’re getting more outdoor fitness events, like marathons and half-marathons.
Two notable half-marathons took place over the weekend, with one taking place in Brooklyn, New York and another taking place in Texas. Thousands of people participated in the half marathons, which are 13.1 miles long.
Tragically, two former college football players have died as a result of their participation in the half marathons.
Former college football player Charles “Ace” Rogers competed in the Brooklyn Half Marathon on Saturday. He reportedly collapsed at Mile 8. Rogers suffered cardiac arrest and was unable to be saved, despite being rushed to the hospital.
He was just 31 years old.
Rogers had played at Lindenwood and Minnesota.
“The Lindenwood Football family mourns the loss of Ace Rogers. Our thoughts & prayers go out to his wife Sydney, his parents Teresa Jordan & Charles Rogers, and the rest of his family,” the school announced.
The Lindenwood Football family mourns the loss of Ace Rogers.
Our thoughts & prayers go out to his wife Sydney, his parents Teresa Jordan & Charles Rogers, and the rest of his family. pic.twitter.com/yVPg6DzaXz
— Lindenwood Football (@LindenwoodFB) May 18, 2025
Tragically, Rogers is not the only one who lost his life in a half marathon over the weekend.
Brian Williams, 24, took part in a half marathon in Irving, Texas over the weekend. He reportedly suffered a heat stroke and died.
The former college football player played collegiately at Texas A&M University.
“Our thoughts and condolences are with the family and friends of former Texas A&M Football safety Brian Williams,” the school announced.
Here.
Our thoughts and condolences are with the family and friends of former Texas A&M Football safety Brian Williams ‘24. pic.twitter.com/w6NuPjkp18
— Texas A&M Football (@AggieFootball) May 20, 2025
Our thoughts are with the friends and family members of the two former college football players following their tragic passings.
May they rest in peace.
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