Wheaton College Athletics said it happened in Port Sheldon Township, Michigan.
Jalen Shaffer, 26, played four seasons at Wheaton in five years. He was in the school's class of 2022.
Philip LoChirco, 24, played three seasons over four years. He was in the school's class of 2023.
Wheaton Head Football Coach Jesse Scott said on Monday, "Our hearts are heavy as we share the tragic passing of Jalen and Phil... They were more than former players in our program - they were brothers, teammates, and friends whose lives left a lasting impact on Wheaton Football. Both Jalen and Phil were great examples of what it means to be Wheaton Football players: men who pursued excellence in what they did on and off the field, but more importantly, men who wanted others to know and love Jesus and who were fiercely committed to their faith... As we grieve alongside their families, teammates, and all who loved them, we hold fast to the truth of the gospel. We are grateful that Christ meets us in our sorrow, and that our hope is secure even when our hearts are broken."
LoChirco was also a coach at Wheaton Academy. Athletic Director Brad Byrne issued a statement, saying, "This is a devastating loss for our football family and our Wheaton Academy community. Coach LoChirco had a real impact on our students, not just as players, but as young men. There are four things that really stood out about him. First, he loved the Lord, and his hope in Christ was at the center of how he lived. Second, he loved his wife, Emily, and his family deeply. That was clear to everyone who knew him. Third, he loved football and everything it gave him, the brotherhood, the discipline, and the community he found at Wheaton College. That experience helped shape him and strengthen his faith. And fourth, he felt called to pour into young men. He used football as a way to teach, mentor, and disciple them. To him, it was never just about the game, it was about helping young men grow into who they're meant to be. He showed up every day with energy and joy. His smile and his laugh lifted people up, and our players knew he cared about them. We're heartbroken, but we also find comfort in our faith and in knowing he loved the Lord so deeply. We're holding onto the promise, 'The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.' Please keep his wife, Emily, and his family in your prayers."