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Minnesota Vikings’ Khyree Jackson Dies in Tragic Car Accident at 24

  • Minnesota selected Jackson with the 108th overall pick in the 2024 Draft in April



Minnesota Vikings draftee Khyree Jackson has died at the age of 24, according to a report.

The football player tragically died in a three-car accident in Upper Marlboro, Maryland.

He was killed in the crash, along with his former high school teammates Anthony Lytton Jr. and Isaiah Hazel, both 24.

His mother, Ebbony Jackson, confirmed to TMZ on Saturday that she received a phone call about his death in the early morning hours of Saturday.

Jackson and Hazel were both pronounced dead at the scene by emergency medical services, Maryland State Police said. Meanwhile, Lytton was taken to a hospital, where he later died.

Minnesota Vikings draftee Khyree Jackson has died at the young age of 24

The crash happened around 3 a.m. ET Saturday when a woman, identified as Cori Clingman, attempted to change lanes at a high rate of speed on Route 4 in a silver Infinity, police believe.

She collided with the Dodge Charger driven by Hazel and carrying Jackson and Lytton, which collided with another vehicle, causing the Dodge to leave the road and hit several trees before eventually coming to a stop.

Clingman had two other passengers in her vehicle at the time of the crash, while the other driver was the sole occupant of his Chevrolet. No one else was injured in the crash.

Maryland police have launched an investigation into the fatal crash, suspecting alcohol was a factor.

The cornerback’s shocking death came just under three months after he was selected by the Vikings in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Minnesota took Jackson with the 108th overall pick in the fourth round after his collegiate career with both the Oregon Ducks and Alabama Crimson Tide. He was considered a starter for the Vikings for the upcoming season.

“We are devastated to learn that Khyree Jackson has passed away following a car accident,” the Vikings organization said in a statement.

“Our thoughts are with Khyree’s family, friends, teammates and coaches, and all those affected by this tragic accident.”

Anthony Lytton Jr.
Isaiah Hazel
Minnesota selected Jackson with the 108th overall pick in the fourth round of the 2024 Draft
Jackson (L) is pictured with Hazel (R) and boyfriend Carlos Davis (center)

“I am absolutely devastated by this news,” added head coach Kevin O’Connell in his own tribute to the call-up.

“Khyree brought an infectious energy to our facility and our team. His confidence and personable personality immediately drew his teammates to him.

‘In the short time we were together, it was clear that Khyree would develop into a great professional footballer, but even more impressive was his desire to become the best person he could be for his family and those around him.

“I am speechless. My heart goes out to Khyree’s family, friends, teammates and coaches.”

He began his college career at Fort Scott (Kan.) Community College, then played at East Mississippi CC and Alabama. He graduated from Oregon last season and declared for the draft.

Jackson posted his last Instagram post Friday night, just hours before his death
Jackson is pictured with quarterback and fellow draftee JJ McCarthy during rookie camp in May
Jackson had the best season of his career for the Ducks in 2023, with 34 tackles
Jackson played two seasons for the Crimson Tide under Nick Saban (pictured in 2022)

Jackson had the best season of his career for the Ducks in 2023, recording 34 tackles, including two sacks, seven pass breakups and three interceptions as Oregon’s leading cornerback.

His selection in the draft was a redemption of sorts for Jackson, who turned his life around after a minor arrest in junior college — which was later overturned — according to Oregon Live.

Following the news of Jackson’s tragic passing, tributes poured in from across the NFL and college football world.

“RIP Khyree… I love you @Real_Khyree, words are at a loss. I will miss your smile. Great player, better person,” his former Oregon coach Dan Lanning shared on social media.

“Our prayers are with the family, friends and loved ones of Khyree Jackson,” former NFL star Robert Griffin III said in his own tribute.

Following the news, tributes poured in from across the NFL and college football world

‘The former Oregon Duck and current Minnesota Vikings Corner Back passed away last night at the age of 24 in a car accident. Gone way too soon. Heartbreaking.’

“The Senior Bowl is saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Khyree Jackson,” the Reese’s Senior Bowl account said. “Our prayers go out to his family, friends and teammates. Rest in peace Khyree.”

“Terrible news: Vikings rookie CB Khyree Jackson, only 24 years old, sadly passed away last night. Our thoughts and prayers are with those close to Khyree,” a Vikings fan account posted.

“The Dr. Henry A. Wise Athletic Department extends its condolences to the families and mourns the loss of Khyree Jackson (2016-17 State Champion), Anthony Lytton, Jr. (AJ) (2015,16,17-18 State Champion) and Isaiah Hazel (2015, 16, 17-19 State Champion). #OnceAPumaAlwaysAPuma,” the Dr. Henry A. Wise High School Athletics Department said of the trio.

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