Introduction
The Minnesota Vikings and the entire NFL community are mourning the tragic death of rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson, who passed away in a car crash on July 6, 2024, at the age of 24. Jackson, along with his former high school teammates Isaiah Hazel and Anthony Lytton Jr., died in the early morning collision in Prince George’s County, Maryland.
Tragic Accident Details
The fatal accident occurred when the Dodge Charger they were traveling in collided with another vehicle attempting a high-speed lane change. The sudden and devastating news has left Jackson’s family, friends, teammates, and the Vikings organization in deep sorrow.
Reaction from the Vikings
“We are devastated by the news of Khyree Jackson’s death following an overnight car accident,” the Vikings stated. “Our thoughts are with Khyree’s family, friends, teammates, and coaches, as well as all the victims of this tragic accident.”
Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell expressed his profound grief, saying, “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.”
Honoring Khyree Jackson
Despite being selected by the Vikings in the fourth round of the NFL Draft in April, Jackson had not yet played an official game. In honor of his memory, the Vikings will pay the remainder of Jackson’s signing bonus to his estate. According to Spotrac, his total signing bonus was $827,148, with $206,787 allocated for the 2024 season. The Vikings have also announced that no player will wear Jackson’s No. 31, and coaches will wear pins, and players will wear helmet decals with his initials “KJ” throughout the 2024 season.
Furthermore, the Vikings will cover a significant portion of Jackson’s funeral expenses, with key personnel, including general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, head coach Kevin O’Connell, defensive coordinator Brian Flores, special teams coach Matt Daniels, and defensive backs coach Daronte Jones, attending the funeral scheduled for this Friday.
Khyree Jackson’s Journey
Jackson spent the 2023 season at Oregon, earning a spot on the All-Pac-12 first team with an impressive record of 34 tackles, seven pass breakups, three interceptions, and two sacks in 12 games. Before his time at Oregon, he played for Alabama, where he showcased his talent and passion for the game.
Khyree Jackson’s untimely death is a profound loss to the Minnesota Vikings and the entire football community. His determination, energy, and dedication to becoming a great player and an even better person left a lasting impression on those who knew him. As the Vikings and fans remember his contributions on and off the field, his legacy will continue to inspire.
Conclusion
The tragic death of Khyree Jackson is a sobering reminder of the fragility of life. The Minnesota Vikings, along with Jackson’s family, friends, and fans, are left to mourn the loss of a promising young athlete whose potential was just beginning to unfold. His spirit and memory will forever remain in the hearts of those he touched.
