UNLV offensive lineman Ben Christman, a former Ohio State Buckeye and Kentucky Wildcat, passed away earlier this year at 21. His cause of death — cardiac arrhythmia and cardiomyopathy, according to the Clark County Office of the Coroner/Medical Examiner — was revealed earlier this week by TMZ. Christman reportedly experienced chest pains at practice the day before his death.
Kirk Herbstreit Pushes for Change in Wake of Ben Christman’s Death
As the news made rounds across the college football landscape, ESPN’s Kirk Herbstreit sent condolences to Christman’s family on social media.
I’m so sorry to hear this and my condolences to Ben’s family-I can’t imagine what they’re going through. It’s time we find answers to these existing cardiovascular issues and an EKG isn’t getting it done. Would love to partner with others to mandate that intercollegiate physicals… https://t.co/3KyhrUA9ge
— Kirk Herbstreit (@KirkHerbstreit) May 9, 2025
He shared his personal experience with heart issues, calling for physicals to include echocardiograms — a non-invasive ultrasound test that creates images of the heart.
“I’m so sorry to hear this and my condolences to Ben’s family,” Herbstreit said on X. “I can’t imagine what they’re going through. It’s time we find answers to these existing cardiovascular issues and an EKG isn’t getting it done. Would love to partner with others to mandate that intercollegiate physicals include echocardiograms.
“My son was diagnosed at 20 years old with cardiomyopathy (enlarged left ventricle). Was severe enough that a heart replacement was talked about if his heart didn’t improve. Thankfully it has improved since the spring of 2023.
“Too many young people are asymptomatic and unaware of any issues that exist. A mandated Echo could help save lives. It’s time for the NCAA and Conference Commissioners to take a look at this. Love to be involved.”
Christman was part of a Rose Bowl-winning Ohio State squad in 2021-22 before transferring to Kentucky for two years. He transferred to UNLV this fall to play for head coach Dan Mullen.
“Our team’s heart is broken to hear of Ben’s passing,” 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.”
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