Minnesota Vikings rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson’s promising journey in the NFL tragically came to an abrupt end following a fatal car accident in his hometown of Upper Marlboro, Maryland. Khyree Jackson and two others were killed in a car crash Saturday morning in Prince George’s County, Maryland, according to Maryland State Police. Jackson was 24 years old.
“Jackson, who was the front passenger in a Dodge Charger, was pronounced dead on the scene by emergency medical personnel, according to the MSP news release, following a three-car collision in Upper Marlboro. Isaiah Hazel, 23, and Anthony Lytton Jr., 24, were also killed in the crash”
The 24-year-old, known for his infectious smile and magnetic personality, was one of three victims in the early morning crash involving multiple vehicles. Jackson, selected in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft, had quickly endeared himself to teammates and coaches alike with his vibrant spirit and unwavering dedication to football. His path to the NFL was marked by resilience and determination, having overcome setbacks and multiple college transfers before landing at Oregon, where he excelled and earned All-Pac-12 honors. “Khyree brought contagious energy to our facility and our team,” Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell lamented. “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.” The crash, still under investigation by Maryland State Police, occurred when the Charger carrying Jackson, Isaiah Hazel, and Anthony Lytton Jr. was struck by a silver Infiniti Q50 on Route 4. Hazel, the driver, and Lytton Jr., seated in the rear, also lost their lives in the tragic incident. “We are devastated by the news of Khyree Jackson’s death,” the Vikings organization expressed in a heartfelt statement. “Our thoughts are with Khyree’s family, friends, teammates, and coaches, as well as all the victims of this tragic accident.” Jackson’s potential on the field was matched by his aspirations off it, resonating deeply with those who knew him. “Khyree’s personality captured every room he was in,” Vikings General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah recalled.
“I’m devastated that his life and everything he had in front of him have been cut short.” As the NFL community mourns the loss of a promising young talent, Jackson’s legacy as a player and a person will endure. His journey from Maryland to the NFL was a testament to perseverance and the pursuit of excellence, leaving an indelible mark on all who crossed his path. Jackson was selected by the Vikings in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft. He spent two years at the University of Alabama before playing his final collegiate season at the University of Oregon in 2023. “The NFL family is deeply saddened and devastated by the passing of Vikings rookie Khyree Jackson,” the league said in a statement. “Our thoughts and condolences are with his family, loved ones, and everybody involved in this tragic accident.
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