Minnesota Vikings rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson was killed in a car crash overnight, the team announced Saturday. He was 24.
Details of the crash were not immediately available. Jackson’s mother, Ebbony, told TMZ that her son died in his hometown of Upper Marlboro, Maryland.
Jackson was selected by the Vikings in the fourth round of this year’s draft and had been considered a contender to start at cornerback.
“We are devastated by the news of Khyree Jackson’s death following an overnight car accident,” the Vikings said in a statement.
“Our thoughts are with Khyree’s family, friends, teammates and coaches, as well as all the victims of this tragic accident.”
He was an all-Pac-12 first-team selection for Oregon in 2023. Prior to joining the Ducks, Jackson played two seasons at Alabama under coach Nick Saban.
He had quit football at one point after high school before returning to the sport at a community college and ascending to the Division I level.
“I am absolutely crushed by this news,” Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell said in a statement.
“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.
