DePaul University and the wider sports community are mourning the sudden passing of Chase Stegall, a sophomore soccer player and the son of former NFL and CFL wideout Milton Stegall. Chase, 20, was found unresponsive in his residence hall on DePaul’s Lincoln Park campus in Chicago on Monday morning, according to university officials and multiple news reports.
The cause of death has not been disclosed, but the Cook County medical examiner’s office has scheduled an autopsy to determine the cause and manner of his passing. Although, in a personal essay published on DePaul’s website in February, Chase shared that he had a history of seizures. He recounted how, after experiencing a seizure at DePaul, his coaches and teammates supported him—head coach Mark Plotkin even left practice to visit him in the hospital.
Chase Stegall was a valued member of the DePaul Blue Demons men’s soccer team, appearing in 16 games during the 2024 season and scoring his first collegiate goal against Drake University. Known for his dedication, positive spirit, and sportsmanship, Chase had become an integral part of the team after not seeing game action during his freshman year.
DePaul’s Vice President and Director of Athletics DeWayne Peevy and head coach Mark Plotkin released a joint statement expressing the university’s grief:
“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. His loss will be deeply felt across our entire Athletics and university family and his memory will forever be a part of DePaul University.”
Chase was the son of Milt Stegall, a former Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver who went on to become a Canadian Football League legend, setting records for most career touchdowns and earning nine CFL All-Star selections.
The DePaul community has rallied around the Stegall family, offering condolences and support. University officials have stated that counseling and support services are available to students and staff affected by the loss. As the investigation continues, friends and teammates remember Chase Stegall for his kindness, determination, and lasting impact both on and off the field.
The cause of death has not been disclosed, but the Cook County medical examiner’s office has scheduled an autopsy to determine the cause and manner of his passing. Although, in a personal essay published on DePaul’s website in February, Chase shared that he had a history of seizures. He recounted how, after experiencing a seizure at DePaul, his coaches and teammates supported him—head coach Mark Plotkin even left practice to visit him in the hospital.
Chase Stegall was a valued member of the DePaul Blue Demons men’s soccer team, appearing in 16 games during the 2024 season and scoring his first collegiate goal against Drake University. Known for his dedication, positive spirit, and sportsmanship, Chase had become an integral part of the team after not seeing game action during his freshman year.
DePaul’s Vice President and Director of Athletics DeWayne Peevy and head coach Mark Plotkin released a joint statement expressing the university’s grief:
“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. His loss will be deeply felt across our entire Athletics and university family and his memory will forever be a part of DePaul University.”
Chase was the son of Milt Stegall, a former Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver who went on to become a Canadian Football League legend, setting records for most career touchdowns and earning nine CFL All-Star selections.
The DePaul community has rallied around the Stegall family, offering condolences and support. University officials have stated that counseling and support services are available to students and staff affected by the loss. As the investigation continues, friends and teammates remember Chase Stegall for his kindness, determination, and lasting impact both on and off the field.
