Minnesota Vikings draftee Khyree Jackson tragically passed away at the age of 24 in a car accident, according to Oregon Live reporter James Crepea. The incident occurred in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, where Jackson was killed along with his former high school teammates Anthony Lytton Jr. and Isaiah Hazel. Their high school coach, DaLawn Parrish, confirmed the details.
Jackson’s mother, Ebbony Jackson, revealed to TMZ that she received the heartbreaking news in the early hours of Saturday morning. Just under three months ago, Jackson was selected by the Vikings in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft, following a notable college career with the Oregon Ducks and Alabama Crimson Tide. He had been highly anticipated to be a starting cornerback for the Vikings in the upcoming season.
“We are devastated by the news of Khyree Jackson’s death following an overnight car accident,” the Vikings organization expressed in a statement. “Our thoughts are with Khyree’s family, friends, teammates, and coaches, as well as all the victims of this tragic accident.”
Head coach Kevin O’Connell added, “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’s journey to the NFL was marked by determination and resilience. He began his college career at Fort Scott Community College in Kansas, followed by stints at East Mississippi Community College and Alabama, before finishing at Oregon. His 2023 season with the Ducks was his best, recording 34 tackles, including two sacks, seven pass breakups, and three interceptions. His selection in the NFL Draft was seen as a redemption, showcasing his ability to overcome past challenges, including a minor arrest in junior college that was later dropped.
Tributes have poured in from across the NFL and college football community. Oregon coach Dan Lanning expressed his sorrow on social media, writing, “RIP Khyree… Love you @Real_Khyree at a loss for words. I will miss your smile. Great player, better person.”
Former NFL star Robert Griffin III also shared his condolences, stating, “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.”
The Reese’s Senior Bowl account posted, “The Senior Bowl is saddened to learn of the sudden passing of Khyree Jackson. Our prayers go out to his family, friends, and teammates. Rest in peace Khyree.”
A Vikings fan account tweeted, “Awful news: Vikings rookie CB Khyree Jackson, at just 24 years old, has unfortunately passed away last night. Our thoughts and prayers are with those who were close to Khyree.”
The Dr. Henry A. Wise Athletic Department, where Jackson and his friends were high school champions, mourned the loss, saying, “The Dr. Henry A. Wise Athletic Department sends condolences to the families and mourns the loss of Khyree Jackson, Anthony Lytton Jr., and Isaiah Hazel. #OnceAPumaAlwaysAPuma.”
Jackson’s untimely death has left a void in the hearts of many. His legacy, marked by perseverance and talent, will be remembered by all who knew him.