Beloved NFL hopeful, Khyree Jackson, tragically di-ed in a car accident on Saturday morning, just hours after posting a somber message on Instagram.
Police reported that the 24-year-old Jackson and two of his friends were killed when their car was struck by a speeding vehicle. Recently drafted by the Minnesota Vikings, Jackson was one of the victims.
Authorities confirmed that Jackson, a cornerback, and the driver, Hazel, a high school teammate of Jackson, were pronounced dead at the scene. Anthony Lytton Jr., another passenger and teammate, was taken to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries later.
On Friday, Jackson shared a 10-slide Instagram post featuring moments from his life, including images from Vikings practice and a caption that read, “Mmmhmmm.” The post also included pictures of Jackson smiling on a beach with parrots, posing with a lizard, and taking selfies in stylish outfits.
One of the images contrasted “dreamers” and “doers,” with a group of “dreamers” watching a “doer” surf a massive wave. Jackson epitomized the “doer.”
According to TMZ, Jackson began his college career at Fort Scott Community College after graduating from Dr. Henry Wise Jr. High School. He advanced to play for the Oregon Ducks and the Alabama Crimson Tide. Oregon Live reported that Jackson’s standout season was in 2023, establishing him as the top cornerback for the Ducks. Jackson was selected in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings.
“The news of Khyree Jackson’s death after an overnight car accident breaks our hearts,” the Vikings stated. “The Minnesota Vikings have spoken with Khyree’s family and offered support as we continue to investigate the matter. We have also informed Vikings players, coaches, and staff, providing counseling for those needing emotional support. Our condolences go out to Khyree’s family, friends, teammates, coaches, and all others affected by this tragic accident.”
Jackson’s “contagious energy” was a driving force for his teammates. “The news is heartbreaking,” Vikings Head Coach Kevin O’Connell said in a statement. “Khyree’s energy was felt throughout our building and team. His confidence and great personality made him instantly likable to his teammates. During our time together, it was clear that Khyree was destined to be an outstanding professional football player. What truly stood out was his dedication to being the best person he could be for his family and those around him. I am at a loss for words. My thoughts and prayers are with Khyree’s family, friends, teammates, and coaches.”
Around 3 a.m. Saturday, Jackson was in a Dodge Charger with two former teammates when a fast-moving Infiniti pulled out in front of them. According to police, the Charger veered off the road after the collision and struck several tree stumps. The Infiniti also hit a Chevrolet Impala, but the driver of the Impala, Cori Clingman, and her passengers, as well as the driver of the Infiniti, were not injured. No charges have been filed as the investigation continues.
