Seattle Seahawks send support to Minnesota Vikings after tragic death of their rookie

On Saturday morning, the NFL world was struck by tragedy when Khyree Jackson, a fourth-round pick of the Minnesota Vikings in this year’s draft, and two of his high school teammates were killed in a tragic car crash shortly after 3 a.m. Eastern time, according to Maryland State Police.

After news of the tragedy broke, the Vikings received an outpouring of support from around the NFL world. The Seattle Seahawks were one of many teams to show their support with a heartfelt message.

“We send our deepest condolences to Khyree’s family, the Vikings organization and all the victims of this tragedy,” the Seahawks wrote on X.

Jackson, 24, began his college career at Fort Scott Community College in Kansas but transferred to Alabama in 2021 and again to Oregon in 2023. He was named to the All-Pac-12 first team after recording 34 total tackles, seven passes defensed and three interceptions on the year. Jackson was selected No. 108 by the Vikings in April.

Also killed in the crash were former Isaiah Hazel, a 23-year-old who played for Maryland and Charlotte, and 24-year-old Anthony Lytton Jr., who played for Florida State and Penn State. Police say Jackson and Hazel were pronounced dead at the scene, while Lytton was taken to the hospital before hospital staff confirmed his death.

Investigators believe that Cori Clingman, the driver of the vehicle that struck Hazel’s car, was attempting to change lanes when she struck the Dodge Charger the three players were in, causing it to veer off the road and strike several tree stumps. Investigators also believe that alcohol was a factor in the crash. Neither Clingman nor her two passengers were injured in the crash.

Jackson quickly became popular with Vikings fans and was already considered a candidate for the starting lineup in his rookie season.

“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 that he was committed to being a great human being who made a positive impact on people’s lives. Our thoughts are with Khyree’s family and friends and all members of the Minnesota Vikings following this devastating loss,” Vikings owners Mark and Zygi Wolf said in a statement.