An NFL football prospect who died in a car crash on Saturday morning posted a sad final post just hours before his death. Police say a speeding car killed 24-year-old Khyree Jackson and two of his friends. Jackson was recently selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the NFL Draft. Police confirmed early Saturday morning that Jackson, the cornerback, and Hazel, the driver, were both pronounced dead at the scene. Hazel was Jackson’s high school classmate. Anthony Lytton Jr., another passenger and teammate, was taken to the hospital but was later pronounced dead as well. On Friday, Jackson had posted a 10-image carousel on Instagram showing pictures from his life, including ones of him at Vikings practice, accompanied by the message, “Mmmhmmm.” Jackson also posted pictures of himself smiling on the beach with two parrots, posing with a gecko and taking a selfie in front of a mirror to show off his fashionable clothes. In one image from the post comparing “dreamers” and “doers,” a group of people referred to as “dreamers” watch a man referred to as a “doer” surf a big wave. Jackson was truly a “doer.”
TMZ reported that the football star began college at Fort Scott Community College after graduating from Dr. Henry Wise Jr. High School. He worked his way up and later played for the Oregon Ducks and Alabama Crimson Tide. Oregon Live reported that Jackson’s best season to date was 2023, making him the Ducks’ best cornerback. The Vikings selected the 24-year-old cornerback in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft. “We are heartbroken by the news of Khyree Jackson’s death following a late-night car accident,” the Vikings said in a statement. “The Minnesota Vikings have spoken with Khyree’s family and offered their support as we continue to investigate the incident.”
“We have also shared the news with Vikings players, coaches and staff and are offering counseling for those who need emotional support.” “Our condolences go out to Khyree’s family, friends, teammates, coaches and all other individuals who lost their lives in this horrific accident.” Jackson had a “contagious energy” that made the other players want to play. “The news of this breaks my heart.” “Khyree’s energy spread throughout our building and team,” O’Connell said in a statement. “His teammates liked him immediately because he was confident and had a great personality.” While we were together, it was clear that Khyree was going to be a great professional football player.
But what really struck me was how much he wanted to be the best person he could be for his family and the people around him. “I don’t know what to say. Khyree’s family, friends, teammates and coaches are in my thoughts and prayers.” Around 3 a.m. Saturday, Jackson was driving in a Dodge Charger with two former teammates when a speeding Infiniti pulled into the road in front of them. Police report that after the collision, the Charger veered off the road to the right and struck several tree stumps. According to police, the Infiniti also struck a Chevrolet Impala. The driver of the Impala, Cori Clingman, and the two people in her car were not injured. The driver of the Infiniti was also not injured. No charges have been filed following the investigation
