Ben Christman, a 21-year-old offensive lineman for the University of Nevada-Las Vegas (UNLV), was discovered dead in his off-campus Las Vegas, Nevada, apartment on Tuesday morning, February 11, 2025. Christman had recently transferred from the University of Kentucky. The Clark County Coroner’s Office is tasked with determining the cause of death, though no foul play is suspected by authorities.
Christman, weighing 300 pounds and standing at 6’6″, became part of the UNLV football program in December 2024. He was recruited by head coach Dan Mullen and was one of 40 new players, including 25 transfers, brought in to boost the Rebels following their 2024 Mountain West title game appearance. The team’s successful season led to former head coach Barry Odom’s appointment as head coach at Purdue University.
“Our team’s heart is broken to hear of Ben’s passing,” said UNLV coach Dan Mullen. “Ben made the Rebels a better program from the moment he set foot on our campus. He was a natural choice for our Leadership Committee due to his immediate respect, admiration, and friendship among his teammates. Our prayers are with his family and all who knew him. Ben made the world a better place, and he will be missed.”
Christman’s football career started at Richfield Revere High School in Richfield, Ohio. He rose to become one of the country’s top offensive line prospects. In his senior year, he was Ohio’s third overall prospect and the country’s twelfth offensive tackle recruit for the class of 2021. His performance earned him a spot on the Cleveland.com All-Decade team. Beyond football, Christman also excelled in basketball, displaying the agility and balance that made him a coveted offensive line recruit.
Recruitment analysts frequently praised Christman’s strength and blocking skills. He was known for his ability to overpower defenders and push them back without strain. His control, toughness, and aggressive play were his trademarks. His balance and footwork were as steady as his power, making it challenging for anyone trying to bypass him. 247Sports analyst Allen Trieu stated that Christman had the potential to be a future NFL draft pick, highlighting his unique combination of size, strength, and attitude.
Initially, Christman committed to Ohio State, where he spent two seasons under head coach Ryan Day. He redshirted in 2021 and made his collegiate debut in 2022, participating in one game as a right guard. Reacting to the news of Christman’s passing, Day expressed his deep sorrow for the family and empathized with the teammates who joined the program with Christman. While recognizing Christman’s talent, Day emphasized that his character made the loss even more profound.
After the 2023 spring practice with the Buckeyes, Christman transferred to the University of Kentucky. A knee injury kept him out of the 2023 season, but he returned in 2024, participating in all 12 games primarily on special teams. UNLV head coach Dan Mullen noted his performance and leadership, recruiting him as a priority.
According to athletic director Erick Harper, the news of Ben Christman’s death has deeply affected the UNLV program. Despite his brief tenure at UNLV, Christman had significantly influenced his coaches and teammates. Harper expressed his sorrow over the loss of a young person full of promise and relayed his condolences to Christman’s family, friends, and teammates.
UNLV President Keith E. Whitfield described the loss as a tragedy that has profoundly impacted the university. He noted that Christman had left an indelible mark on those who knew him in his short tenure. Whitfield assured that the university is offering support to students and staff and encouraged those affected to use the available counseling services and resources.
Christman, survived by his parents Brian and Karen, and siblings Thomas and Brooks, had ambitions beyond football. His Kentucky Athletics profile indicates his interest in pursuing a career in coaching or player personnel development. With two more years of eligibility, he was set to be a crucial part of the Rebels’ offensive line.
