AN NFL draftee has died in a car accident just months after being drafted.
Khyree Jackson, 24, was killed in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, about 20 miles east of Washington DC.
Khyree’s mother Ebbony confirmed to TMZ that she received a call about his death at 4 am Eastern on Saturday morning.
The NFL rookie was involved in a three-car auto crash on Friday night, per a Maryland State police statement.
Jackson was a passenger in a maroon Dodge Charger driven by his former Wise High School teammate Isaiah Hazel, per the police report.
Jackson and Hazel were killed at the scene of the crash involving a silver Infiniti Q50 and a silver Chevrolet Impala.
A third passenger in the car, fellow teammate Anthony Lytton, Jr, was transported to a local hospital but died upon arrival.
“The driver of the silver Infiniti, later identified as Cori Clingman, was traveling northbound on Route 4/Pennsylvania Avenue in Prince George’s County,” the police report reads.
“Investigators believe Clingman attempted to change lanes while driving at a high rate of speed when she struck the Dodge Charger and then struck the Chevrolet Impala.”
Jackson was selected as the No. 108 overall pick by the Minnesota Vikings in the fourth round of this year’s NFL Draft.
He starred as a cornerback for both the Oregon Ducks and Alabama Crimson Tide in college.
“We are devastated by the news of Khyree Jackson’s death following an overnight car accident,” a Vikings statement read.
“While we work to gather more information, we have spoken to Khyree’s family and offered the support of the Minnesota Vikings.
“We have also communicated the news to Vikings players, coaches, and staff and have offered counseling for those who need emotional support.
“Our thoughts are with Khyree’s family, friends, teammates, and coaches, as well as all the victims of this tragic accident.”
Jackson’s journey to the NFL began at Wise High School where he initially played as a wide receiver.
I am absolutely crushed by this news.
Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell
He began his college career at Fort Scott Community College in Kansas, before stints with the East Mississippi CC and Alabama.
Jackson arrived at the Ducks in 2023 and proceeded to put up career numbers.
He began the season as the starting corner, making 34 tackles, two sacks, and three interceptions.
“I am absolutely crushed by this news.” Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell said in a statement.
“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.”
