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Former College Football QB Killed in Devastating Plane Crash

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Dillon T. Graff | Last updated Feb 3, 2025 6:45 AM ET

A devastating plane crash near Washington, D.C., claimed the lives of dozens on Wednesday night, including a former college football player.

Former Navy quarterback Brian Ellis has been identified as one of the victims, tragically losing his life in the crash.

Ellis, a 1993 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, was among the 60 passengers and four crew members who lost their lives when an American Airlines regional jet collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter just outside Ronald Reagan National Airport.

The crash, which took place about 350 feet in the air, also claimed the lives of three U.S. military personnel aboard the helicopter. Officials are still investigating the circumstances surrounding the mid-air collision.

Ellis was a proud member of the Navy football program, appearing in 22 games during the 1991 and 1992 seasons. The U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association released a statement mourning Ellis' passing.

Brian Ellis (Former Navy Football Player), Naval Academy grad who died in DC plane crash, ‘would do anything to help people’ (Baltimore Banner): https://t.co/sWmGCpaZeT
— Navy Athletics (@NavyAthletics) February 2, 2025

“Our hearts go out to all those who experienced loss through this devastating event,” the statement read. “Among those on board was one of our own — Brian Ellis ’93, a former Navy football player and proud graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy.

"We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends and the entire Naval Academy community who mourn his passing.”

Ellis' legacy as both a football player and a Naval Academy graduate remains deeply respected, and his loss is felt across the Navy community.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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