Tragedy strikes as NFL prospect Khyree Jackson passes away. The 24-year-old was set to play his rookie year in the upcoming 2024 season. The Maryland native, born on August 11, 1999, was picked by the Minnesota Vikings during the fourth-round pick in the 2024 NFL draft. Unfortunately, weeks before the Vikings’ preseason training camp, Jackson met an unfortunate fate.

According to a TMZ report, Khyree Jackson’s mother, Ebbony Jackson, confirmed the news of his untimely passing. A report from JPAFootball stated that Jackson met with a car accident, which led to his untimely demise. Apparently, the athlete’s mother received the bad news at 4 AM ET today (July 6, 2024). The accident reportedly took place in Upper Marlboro, Maryland.

In their report, TMZ elaborated that Jackson had two other companions during the accident: Isaiah Hazel and Anthony Lytton. The trio were reportedly riding in a maroon Dodge Charger that collided with two other vehicles. The investigators reportedly learned that Jackson’s car was hit by a speeding silver Infiniti while changing lanes. It made the Charger lose control and barrel off the roadway after ramming into a Chevy Impala. Khyree Jackson and Isaiah Hazel were pronounced dead on the spot, while Anthony Lytton died shortly after being rushed to the hospital.

As news has started to filter around, NFL fans have expressed their sorrow. One disheartened fan wrote, “Damn bruh it’s so crazy how quick your life can end smfh, RIP and Prayers to his family.” Before being picked to play in the NFL, the cornerback played his college football for Alabama and Oregon. During his college career, Jackson impressed with 36 solo tackles and 12 assisted tackles. The late CB also had 2 sacks in his career and both came during his time with Oregon.

Many fans paid tribute to Khyree on social media after the unfortunate news. One fan pointed out the terrible unpredictability of life and wrote, “Life is so unpredictable dawg rip.” A lot of fans were excited to see him grace the field in the Vikings’ colors. Coming to grips with the loss, another disheartened fan also wrote, “Bro just got drafted, sad.” Some also offered their condolences to his family as well. But not just the fans, the Vikings head coach also paid a touching tribute to Khyree Jackson.

Kevin O’Connell pays tribute to Khyree Jackson

The Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell was heartbroken when he found out about Khyree Jackson. Via an official press release, O’Connell mourned his student and added, “I’m at a loss for words.”

Though the Maryland native didn’t spend much time with the franchise, Jackson apparently became a favorite among his teammates with his “confidence” and “engaging personality.” The HC also added that Khyree had the potential to be a “tremendous professional football player” and it’s a crying shame that we won’t see him light up the field with his energy.

The Vikings owners Mike and Zygi Wilf also expressed their sorrow after the tragedy. Oregon coach Dan Lanning also took to his X account to say farewell to his former student. A heartbroken Lanning wrote, “I will miss your smile. Great player better person.” 

Here at EssentiallySports, we offer our heartfelt condolences to Khyree Jackson’s friends and family.