Former Ohio State offensive lineman Ben Christman was found dead on Tuesday at the age of 21.
Christman began his football career at Ohio State before transferring to Kentucky and then UNLV. Christman had only been at UNLV for a month prior to his death.
“Our team’s heart is broken to hear of Ben’s passing,” UNLV coach Dan Mullen said in a statement. “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. Our prayers go out to his family and all who knew him. Ben made the world a better place and he will be missed.”
Christman was a four-star recruit out of Richfield, Ohio. He redshirted in 2021 and played in one game for the Buckeyes in 2022. He then transferred to Kentucky and missed 2023 due to an injury. Christman finally got his shot last season and played in all 12 games for the Wildcats before deciding to leave for UNLV.
Ohio State shared a message following Christman’s death.
As did Kentucky.
Kentucky coach Mark Stoops shared a meaningful comment about Christman.
“We are all at a loss right now hearing about the passing of Ben Christman. He was a player who came in every day and went to work. He was tough as nails on the field but off the field he was a gentle and kind soul. He was loved by all of us and our prayers go out to his family and friends during this difficult time,” Stoops said in his statement.
Christman’s cause of death will be investigated by the Clark County Coroner’s Office.
