Tragedy struck the family and team of an up-and-coming NFL star over the weekend.
According to Breitbart, Minnesota Vikings rookie Khyree Jackson was reportedly killed in a fatal car accident with two others. The rookie cornerback was only 24.
The fourth-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft was reportedly killed in Maryland, according to officials.
The Maryland State Police also issued a statement with further details regarding the fatal accident, which also claimed the lives of two of his former teammates.
Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell released a statement regarding the young star's death.
"I am absolutely crushed by this news," Coach O’Connell said.
"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."
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
Vikings GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah also released a statement on Jackson's death.
"I am heartbroken by the loss of Khyree. As we got to know him throughout the pre-draft process, it was clear the goals Khyree wanted to accomplish both professionally and personally. His story was one of resilience. He was taking steps to become the best version of himself, not just for him, but for those who cared about and looked up to him. Khyree’s personality captured every room he was in."
Adofo-Mensah added, "I’m devastated that his life and everything he had in front of him has been cut short. My thoughts are with Khyree’s family and friends, those who played with and coached him in college, and his teammates and coaches here at the Vikings."
Teammates, players, fans, and friends of Jackson posted tributes to the young player across social media in the wake of his death.
"The Khyree Jackson news reminds me of what Jay Williams said after Kobe Bryant’s passing. Just never know how much time we and our loved ones have left on this earth. I’m almost 38. Jackson was 24. Gotta cherish every moment you have," one X user wrote.
Another X user wrote, "He had the potential to be a stud on this Defense may he rip."
