Minneapolis, MN (KROC AM News) - 22-year-old Nick Connelly, of Red Wing, passed away Sept 19th, 2018.

The former University of Minnesota offensive tackle succumbed to Burkitt’s lymphoma, which is a rare and aggressive form of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

Connelly played for the Gophers from 2015-17 and played in 14 games for the Gophers after redshirting in 2015. He started five games for Minnesota last season before he was forced to retire after injuries plagued his career.

"We are devastated to learn of the passing of Nick Connelly," said Minnesota head coach P.J. Fleck. "He was an amazing young man who took exceptional pride in playing for his hometown Gophers and loved wearing the maroon and gold. Nick's family and friends are in our thoughts and we will honor him this Saturday at Maryland."

Minnesota will honor Connelly in their game against Maryland with a helmet sticker and wristbands.

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