In Loving Memory of Alex “Budda” Collins, #3
Signing Day
When I signed my letter of intent to play for the University of Arkansas under Head Coach Bret Bielema in the winter of 2013, I knew I would be joined by an elite, star-studded group leading the charge for a promising tenure under the brand-new coach. Coach B reeled in Fayetteville high school teammates Austin Allen and Alex Brignoni, 4-star, 6’10” Dan Skipper out of Colorado, 4-star Hunter Henry out of Pulaski Academy, 4-star Denver Kirkland out of South Florida, and JUCO stud Martrell Spaight, to name only a few. As a Fayetteville native, the Hogs were my team long before signing, so I closely watched the signing period as both a fan and a future teammate.
Two days earlier, I remember watching one very special Hog hopeful decide on national television between Miami and Arkansas, along with thousands of other passionate Hog fans. Sporting an all-camo suit down in Plantation, FL, telegraphing his decision and keen ability to catalyze a fanbase, Alex happily picked Arkansas, and as any loyal Hog fan would do, I began fist-pumping around the house, grinning from ear to ear, and texting my future roommates about the news. I knew this was the icing on the cake for a stellar class, and I was eager to compete with someone as dominant in high school football and track as AC.
Man of the People
Arriving on campus in late May of 2013, our freshman class quickly bonded, with Alex leading the charge in the weight room, at community service events, or the occasional frat party. Alex’s specialty was attracting the attention of any Hog-crazed fan, male or female, and working the crowd by generously speaking with kids or enthralling the cameras of the local news stations. Alex was a man of the people and rapidly became a force of nature off the field within his first summer, even before the games started.
When you were around Alex, you knew he was sincere. Although he worked the room like a well-established politician, his curiosity, humility, and authenticity resonated with you, and you were intrigued by his deep interest in learning about the people he crossed paths with. It didn’t matter who you were; he was dying to get to know the fans, random construction workers, chefs, moms, grannies, you name it. Observing him in a social setting was a work of art, a masterclass for sales and politics. His magnetizing energy and elusive appeal attracted the likes of every kind of person, and I’m confident this out-of-this-world personality would’ve continued even without his success on the field.
Football Phenom
For most, the football field is a battleground, but for Alex, it was his playground. Inspiring every teammate he played with, he had a unique ability to find the open gap, power through monstrous SEC defenders, and make cuts on a dime that (eventually) propelled the Hogs to victory. When things were looking bleak, he rallied a team and gave us hope that no matter how poorly the defense played, AC and company could bring us back to life. He conquered the college ranks and eventually went into the NFL, Irish dancing his way into the endzone, unlike any player that has graced the sport.
Also known as “Budda,” an enigma and monster athlete from Broward County, Florida, positively impacted everyone he touched. My college career would not have been complete without his presence, as his fierce competitive spirit and enjoyment of life and the people in it brought the best out of me, on and off the field. Everyone wanted an up-close glimpse of Alex’s spirit, and I am eternally grateful I became friends with such a remarkable, kind, and genuine human being.
To Alex, we will all miss you, buddy. Your memory and legacy will rage on as one of the Razorback greats who cherished the maniacal fans encouraging your undeniable passion for football and life.
Rest in peace #3.
