Claude Lemieux among sports stars who died in 2026

The sports community has experienced significant losses in 2026, with several notable figures passing away. Renowned ice hockey player Claude Lemieux died by suicide at age 60 on May 28, while NFL All-Pro tight end Charlie Young passed away on May 12 at age 75. NBA's first openly gay player, Jason Collins, died the same day at age 47 following a battle with glioblastoma. Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke, age 29, died on May 11, and Denver Broncos quarterback Craig Morton, age 83, passed on May 9. Tributes have poured in as fans mourn these icons and their contributions to sports.

• 1:28 PMYahoo Sports — Sports stars who have died in 2026 so far