Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell ‘devastated’ by Khyree Jackson’s death

Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell and general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah have expressed their shock and sadness over the tragic death of rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson on Friday night.

The 24-year-old, who was selected by the Vikings in the 4th round of this year’s NFL Draft, died in a car accident in his hometown of Maryland on Friday evening, it was confirmed on Saturday morning.

O’Connell said Jackson’s death left him “devastated.” His statement read: “Khyree brought a contagious energy to our facility and our team. His confidence and engaging personality immediately attracted his teammates.”

“In the short time we spent together, it was obvious that Khyree was going to develop into a great football player, but even more impressive was his desire to become the best person he could be for his family and those around him.”

Details about the crash were limited as of Saturday morning, but more information is expected to emerge over the weekend.

Jackson was one of the stories of the 2024 NFL Draft. The cornerback gave up football in 2017 and took a job at a grocery store before returning to the sport in 2019 and becoming a key figure in the Oregon Ducks’ backfield last college season.

Adofo-Mensah said Jackson’s death left him “heartbroken,” adding: “When we got to know him leading up to the draft, it was clear that he wanted to achieve goals both professionally and personally.”

“His story was one of resilience. He took steps to become the best version of himself, not only for himself, but for those who cared about him and looked up to him.”