DePaul University soccer player Chase Stegall, son of CFL legend Milt Stegall, dies at 20

Time of India

03-06-2025

Tragic loss at DePaul University
Chase Stegall, a 20-year-old soccer player at DePaul University and the son of former NFL and CFL star Milton 'Milt' Stegall, died unexpectedly in his residence hall on the DePaul University's Lincoln Park campus in Chicago on the morning of Monday, June 2, 2025.
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The university confirmed his passing in a message from President Rob Manuel, shared with faculty, staff, and students.
The cause of death has not been disclosed.
President Manuel, in an email cited by The DePaulia, wrote:
'Chase was known for his warmth, strength of character, and vibrant presence, qualities that touched the lives of many both on and off the field.'
'His loss is deeply felt by his teammates, coaches, classmates, faculty, staff, and all who knew him.
We extend our heartfelt prayers and deepest sympathies to Chase's family, friends, and loved ones.'
Remembering Chase
Stegall was a sophomore from Atlanta, Georgia, and played as a midfielder for the DePaul Blue Demons. He appeared in 16 of the team's 17 matches during the past season and scored a goal against Drake University. Known among his teammates and coaches as a rising talent, he had already made a significant impact on the field and in the community.
In a joint statement shared via the DePaul men's soccer team's Instagram, DeWayne Peevy, Vice President and Director of Athletics, and head coach Mark Plotkin said:
'We are heartbroken by the unexpected loss of Chase Stegall, a cherished member of our community, dedicated teammate and kind-hearted friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with Chase's family, friends, teammates and all who loved him.'
'In the coming days, we will support Chase's family and teammates through this devastating time.
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His loss will be deeply felt across our entire Athletics and university family and his memory will forever be a part of DePaul University.'
The team also paid tribute on Instagram, writing:
'We are devastated to share the passing of our brother, Chase Stegall. Our heartfelt condolences are with his family, friends and everyone who knew him and loved him. He will forever be a Blue Demon.'
Plans for a memorial service will be announced soon, according to the university.
A legendary lineage
Chase was the son of Milton 'Milt' Stegall, a former NFL wide receiver and Canadian Football League Hall of Famer. Milt began his professional career with the Cincinnati Bengals in 1992 after graduating from the University of Miami (Ohio), playing three seasons before briefly joining the Green Bay Packers in 1995. After suffering a knee injury and being released, he moved to the CFL and joined the Winnipeg Blue Bombers later that year.
By 1997, Milt had become a standout player for the Bombers. He spent 14 seasons with the team, retiring in 2009 as the CFL's all-time leader in receptions (845), receiving yards (15,153), and receiving touchdowns (144). He was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in 2012 and is also a member of the Winnipeg Football Club Hall of Fame.
Condolences from the CFL community
The news of Chase's sudden passing has drawn deep sorrow from the football community, especially the Winnipeg Blue Bombers organization.
Wade Miller, President and CEO of the Blue Bombers, said in a statement shared on the team's Instagram:
'We are heartbroken to learn of the sudden and tragic passing of Chase Stegall, beloved son of Blue Bombers legend Milt Stegall.'
'Chase was a bright and talented young man with a promising future, and his loss is felt deeply across our entire Blue Bombers family. Our hearts go out to Milt, Darlene, and the entire Stegall family during this unimaginable time. We mourn with them and extend our deepest condolences, love, and support.'
Chase Stegall is survived by his parents, Milton and Darlene Stegall, and his brother, Collin.