Khyree Jackson, a rookie cornerback with the Minnesota Vikings, was killed in a car accident early Saturday.
Jackson was 24.
Maryland State police reported that Jackson and a pair of former high school teammates, Isaiah Hazel and Anthony Lytton Jr., were involved in a three-car accident in Prince George’s County at 3:14 a.m. Another car attempting to change lanes at high speed struck Hazel’s Dodge Charger and sent it off the road. Police believe the reckless driver may have been impaired by alcohol.
Hazel, 23, who played college football at Maryland and Charlotte, and Lytton, 24, who played at Florida State and Penn State, were also killed.
Jackson, who played two seasons at Alabama before spending his final year at Oregon, had been expected to contend for a starting role for the Vikings after being drafted in the fourth round.
We are devastated by the news of Khyree Jackson’s death following an overnight car accident.
Our thoughts are with Khyree’s family, friends, teammates and coaches, as well as all the victims of this tragic accident.
💔💔💔 pic.twitter.com/pkgC4kQtWi
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) July 6, 2024
“I am absolutely crushed by this news. Khyree brought a contagious energy to our facility and our team,” Minnesota head coach Kevin O’Connell said in a statement. “His confidence and engaging personality immediately drew his teammates to him. In our short time together, it was evident Khyree was going to develop into a tremendous professional football player, but what was more impressive was his desire to become the best person he could be for his family and those around him. I am at a loss for words. My heart goes out to Khyree’s family, friends, teammates and coaches.”
Oregon coach Dan Lanning posted a message on X remembering the former Ducks star.
RIP Khyree… Love you @Real_Khyree at a loss for words. I will miss your smile. Great player better person.
— Dan Lanning (@CoachDanLanning) July 6, 2024
Alabama football also posted a message on X remembering Jackson.
Alabama mourns the loss of former student-athlete Khyree Jackson. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/eHeZGFpqHb
— Alabama Football (@AlabamaFTBL) July 6, 2024
Others throughout the football world offered their condolences.
The NFL family is deeply saddened and devasted by the passing of Vikings rookie Khyree Jackson.
Our thoughts and condolences are with his family, loved ones and everybody involved in this tragic accident. pic.twitter.com/Qj2rc4YgNv
— NFL (@NFL) July 6, 2024
Prayers up for the family, friends and loved ones of Khyree Jackson. The former Oregon Duck and current Minnesota Vikings Corner Back died in a car accident last night at the age of 24. Gone way too soon. Heartbreaking. pic.twitter.com/XBKh2IG24G
— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) July 6, 2024
We are heartbroken by the loss of Khyree and are sending our thoughts & love to all whose lives he touched. 🕊️ https://t.co/gbEHQw8Pz5
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) July 6, 2024
Sending our deepest condolences to our Vikings family and the loved ones of Maryland native Khyree Jackson https://t.co/VKqG95vnnE
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) July 6, 2024
The @NJCAA sends its deepest condolences to the friends, family, and loved ones of former @fsgreyhounds standout Khyree Jackson on his tragic passing. https://t.co/VXGKw3N4Z7
— NJCAA Football (@NJCAAFootball) July 6, 2024
