Vikings rookie CB Khyree Jackson tragically killed in car accident

Minnesota Vikings rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson reportedly passed away in a recent car accident, according to the Oregonian's James Crepea and TMZ on Saturday.

Crepea reported that Jackson's agent and his former high school coach confirmed the terrible news and TMZ shared that his mother also confirmed his passing.

Jackson was just 24-years-old, and he was preparing for his rookie season with the Vikings after the team selected him in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft out of the University of Oregon.

Minnesota Vikings rookie CB Khyree Jackson passes away at the age of 24

Minnesota confirmed Jackson's passing on Saturday and released multiple statements following the terrible news.

Statement from Vikings owners Mark and Zygi Wilf:

"We are deeply saddened by the news of Khyree’s passing. Khyree had an extremely bright future ahead of him as a player, and it was clear he was dedicated to being a tremendous person who made a positive difference in people’s lives. We are thinking about Khyree’s family and friends and all members of the Minnesota Vikings following this devastating loss."

Statement from Minnesota head coach Kevin O'Connell:

"I am absolutely crushed by this news. 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."

Statement from Vikings general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah:

"I am heartbroken by the loss of Khyree. As we got to know him throughout the pre-draft process, it was clear the goals Khyree wanted to accomplish both professionally and personally. His story was one of resilience. He was taking steps to become the best version of himself not just for him, but for those who cared about and looked up to him.

Khyree’s personality captured every room he was in. I’m devastated that his life and everything he had in front of him has been cut short. My thoughts are with Khyree’s family and friends, those who played with and coached him in college, and his teammates and coaches here at the Vikings."

Multiple Vikings players have also shared their reactions to the awful news online.

The Star Tribune's Ben Goessling shared a press release on Saturday from Maryland State Police with details of the accident, which also killed two of Jackson's high school teammates.