Minnesota Vikings rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson, 24, was tragically killed in a car crash on Saturday morning in Prince George’s County, Maryland. The accident, which occurred on July 6, 2024, also claimed the lives of two other individuals. Maryland State Police confirmed the incident and the loss has sent shockwaves through the NFL community and Jackson’s team.
Jackson, a native of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, had a promising career ahead of him. He was selected by the Vikings in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft, with the 108th overall pick. Known for his exceptional skills on the field, Jackson had previously played for Oregon after transferring from Alabama, where he showcased his talents in 12 games, recording 34 tackles, five tackles for loss, two sacks, seven passes defended, and three interceptions.
The crash happened in the early hours of Saturday morning. Maryland State Police are still investigating the cause of the accident and have not yet released the identities of the other victims. The Vikings organization expressed their condolences in a statement, mourning the loss of their young player who had just begun his professional career.
Jackson’s journey to the NFL was marked by perseverance and hard work. Before his tenure at Oregon, he played at Fort Scott Community College and Alabama. At Alabama, he played in 25 games, recording 48 tackles, two sacks, three interceptions, and nine pass defenses. His performance at Oregon earned him First Team All-Pac-12 honors in 2023.
The loss of Khyree Jackson is felt deeply within the Vikings community and beyond. Head Coach Kevin O’Connell and General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah have both expressed their profound sadness and support for Jackson’s family during this difficult time. The team plans to honor Jackson’s memory in the upcoming season.
This incident highlights the often unpredictable nature of life and the importance of road safety. Fans, teammates, and the broader NFL community are coming together to remember Jackson not only for his contributions on the field but also for the person he was off the field
