The Minnesota Vikings and the football community are mourning the tragic loss of Khyree Jackson, a promising young cornerback who died in a car accident on Saturday. Jackson, who was just 24 years old, had recently been drafted by the Vikings in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft.
The accident occurred in Jackson‘s hometown of Upper Marlboro, Maryland. He was traveling in a maroon Dodge Charger with friends Isaiah Hazel and Anthony Lytton when their vehicle collided with two others.
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Maryland State Police reported that a silver Infiniti, attempting to change lanes at high speed, struck the Charger. This collision forced the Charger into a moving Chevy Impala before veering off the road and crashing into trees.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene and pronounced Jackson and Hazel dead. Lytton was transported to a local hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
Fortunately, no other individuals were injured in the crash. The investigation is ongoing, with no charges yet filed against the surviving drivers.
Khyree Jackson‘s potential in the NFL was just beginning to unfold. Selected 108th overall by the Minnesota Vikings, he had impressed many with his skills and dedication.
Vikings General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah had high expectations for Jackson, who had assured him of his commitment during their pre-draft discussions.
Before joining the Vikings, Jackson played two seasons at Alabama before transferring to Oregon, where he had a standout year.
At Oregon, he recorded three interceptions and 34 total tackles, performances that caught the attention of NFL scouts and led to his selection in the draft.
Tributes for Khyree Jackson
The Vikings organization expressed their deep sorrow in a statement: “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.”
Oregon head coach Dan Lanning also paid tribute, writing, “RIP Khyree… Love you @Real_Khyree at a loss for words. I will miss your smile. Great player, better person.”
Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell shared his grief and admiration for Jackson, stating, “I am absolutely crushed by this news. Khyree brought a contagious energy to our facility and our team.
“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.”
Jackson had recently attended the Vikings‘ rookie minicamp and organized team activities (OTAs), where he quickly made a positive impression on the team.
His untimely death is a profound loss not only for his family and friends but also for the entire football community, which had looked forward to his promising career.
