Fans, players and loved ones are mourning the loss of college football star Keith Miller III, who died Thursday evening at 23 years old.
"Miller passed away tragically in his apartment near campus on Thursday evening,” Texas A&M Commerce wrote in a school press release. “The entire Lion community sends its deepest sympathy to Keith's family, friends and teammates."
After playing wide receiver at the University of Colorado for two seasons, Miller transferred to Texas A&M University-Commerce in 2022. He spent two years with the Lions, additionally serving as a team captain during the 2023 season.
News of Miller’s passing was met with an outcry of heartfelt messages and support. "We are heartbroken by Keith's unexpected passing," Texas A&M University-Commerce head coach Clint Dolezel said. "Keith was a beloved father, son, teammate and student-athlete. We extend our deepest sympathies and sincere condolences to his family, friends, teammates, and all who loved him at this very difficult time."
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Miller’s former team also issued a statement, with the Colorado football program writing on X: "We are deeply saddened by the passing of former Buff, Keith Miller. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and teammates."
Texas A&M University-Commerce announced it had expanded services to students in need of guidance or support during this difficult time.
"We are shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden passing of Keith Miller. The A&M-Commerce community extends its deepest condolences to Keith's family and those who knew and loved him," director of athletics Jim Curry said. "Words are hard to come by at this moment, but we ask that you keep those impacted by this tragedy in your thoughts and prayers."
According to the Daily Mail, Miller was in a romantic relationship with Caila Jae. Taking to Instagram, she shared a photo of the pair smiling and making a heart with their hands.
“I wanted to spend the rest of my life with you,” Jae captioned the image. “I will never love anyone the way I loved you. See you soon.”
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USC wide receiver Brenden Rice — the son of Hall of Famer Jerry — additionally offered kind words on social media. He and Miller were teammates together at Colorado before both transferring to different schools.
“I love you Brotha,” Rice wrote on Instagram. “On Everything I love yo son will be taken care of.” The 22-year-old seemed to reference Miller’s son in another post, sharing a picture of his former teammate and a young boy with the message: “Luka gone be straight I got him.”
Fans online were quick to voice their grief, with one writing: “I’m so sorry to hear this. He was such a handsome and fun young man. Our thoughts prayers and condolences are with his family and friends.” Another commented: “Prayers for His Family & His Lions Family.”
