The Minnesota Vikings are mourning the tragic loss of rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson, who passed away in a car crash along with two friends on July 6 in Maryland. Jackson, a fourth-round pick from Oregon, was set to join his draft class at training camp but never had the opportunity to take the field.
The team is deeply saddened by the untimely death of the 24-year-old, known for his infectious joy and strong work ethic. General manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah expressed the team's excitement to have Jackson as part of their culture and building, highlighting the void left by his absence.
The Vikings have taken steps to honor Jackson's memory, including donating over $20,000 towards funeral expenses and organizing a private commemoration with his family. Players will wear helmet decals and coaches will wear pins bearing Jackson's initials as a tribute throughout the season.
Despite the short time Jackson spent with the team, his impact was profound, fostering strong bonds and relationships among his teammates. Head coach Kevin O'Connell emphasized the importance of mental health resources and supporting players through the grieving process.
Reflecting on Jackson's passing, O'Connell stressed the fragility of life and the unpredictable nature of their careers, serving as a poignant reminder to the players. The team is also grappling with another incident involving wide receiver Jordan Addison, who was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence in California.
The Vikings have deferred disciplinary action to the NFL, emphasizing a focus on helping Addison become the best version of himself both on and off the field. Adofo-Mensah highlighted Addison's commitment to personal growth and the team's support in guiding him towards positive outcomes.
As the Vikings navigate these challenging circumstances, they remain united in honoring Jackson's memory and supporting each other through adversity.
