Minneapolis — Former University of Minnesota defensive back Charles “Ace” Rogers died over the weekend while participating in the Brooklyn Marathon, according to school officials. He was 31.
Rogers’ death was announced on social media, and the university expressed its condolences to his family and loved ones.
“Charles was a terrific young man who had an infectious smile and personality,” said a Gopher football team spokesperson. “We will keep his family and friends in our thoughts as they mourn this tragic loss.”
According to NBC New York, Rogers, 31, had completed approximately eight miles of the Brooklyn borough course when he “experienced a medical incident” along Ocean Parkway.
Rogers, from Iowa City, Iowa, played three games for the Gophers in 2015, recording 11 total tackles and one pass breakup. He also spent two seasons at Iowa State, appearing in 21 games in 2013. He was also the state 110-meter hurdle champion at Iowa City West High School.
