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We here at Conquest Chronicles and SB Nation were just as saddened to hear of the passing of former USC Trojans offensive lineman Max Tuerk at just 26 years old. Our collective thoughts are with the entire Tuerk family and Max’s friends, teammates and loved ones.
#FightOnForever, Max Tuerk.
— USC Trojans (@USC_Athletics) June 21, 2020
The #TrojanFamily is terribly saddened by the news of Tuerk’s passing, gone too soon at the age of 26, and our thoughts, prayers and condolences are with his family. pic.twitter.com/PBzN1J55Ch
Max was hiking when he collapsed and passed away. According to a statement from the family, Max and his parents were on a favorite trail when he collapsed in the Cleveland National Forest.
Statement from Max Tuerk’s family: https://t.co/ed5XFOFN0l pic.twitter.com/JZkBUpWQVU
— USC Trojans (@USC_Athletics) June 22, 2020
Max’s name will forever be etched in the USC record books as he’s the first ever true freshman to start at left tackle when he took the field against Arizona back in 2012. He was named a Freshman All-American that year and went on to play in every game for his first three years at USC.
Despite a torn ACL in his senior season, he was still selected in the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft by the San Diego Chargers. He played for the Chargers for two seasons and the Arizona Cardinals for another season before ending his professional career in 2018.
He was a First-Team All-Pac-12 selection in 2014 following a dominant year.
Rest easy, Max. Forever Fight On!