Vikings 4th-round pick Khyree Jackson dies in crash

Cornerback Khyree Jackson, a fourth-round pick by the Minnesota Vikings in April's draft, was killed early Saturday in a three-car crash that left three people dead in Maryland. He was 24. According to Maryland State Police, Jackson was the front-seat passenger in a Dodge Charger that was struck by an Infiniti Q50 shortly after 3 a.m. Saturday in Prince George's County. The Infiniti was attempting to change lanes and traveling at a high rate of speed when the car hit the Charger and then struck a Chevrolet Impala. The impact sent the Charger off the right side of the road, where it came to rest after hitting "multiple tree stumps," per the report. The two other occupants of the Charger -- driver Isaiah Hazel, 23, and Anthony Lytton Jr., 24 -- also were killed. Hazel and Jackson were pronounced dead at the scene, and Lytton was declared deceased at a hospital. The driver of the Impala was uninjured, and the driver of the Infiniti, identified by police as Cori Clingman, and her two passengers were not hurt, according to authorities. Police said alcohol could have contributed to the crash and charges were pending. The death of Jackson, who reportedly was contending for a starting cornerback slot, left the organization stunned. "We are deeply saddened by the news of Khyree's passing," Vikings owners Mark and Zygi Wolf said in a statement. "Kyree had an extremely bright future ahead of him as a player, and it was clear he was dedicated to being a tremendous person who made a positive difference in people's lives. We are thinking about Khyree's family and friends and all members of the Minnesota Vikings following this devastating loss." Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell said in a statement that he was "absolutely crushed" after hearing the news. "Khyree brought a contagious energy to our facility and our team," O'Connell said. "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. I am at a loss for words." Jackson won two state titles at Dr. Henry Wise High School in Upper Marlboro, Md., before enrolling at Fort Smith Community College in 2019. He joined Alabama in 2021 and after two seasons and 21 games, he transferred to Oregon and was a first-team all-Pac-12 selection 2023. He started 12 regular-season games and led the Ducks with three interceptions and had 34 tackles (five for loss) and two sacks. "RIP Khyree," Oregon coach Dan Lanning posted to social media. "Love you @Real_Khyree at a loss for words. I will miss your smile. Great player better person." --Field Level Media