The Minnesota Vikings will honor the late rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson this season with special "KJ" decals on each player's helmet, pay out the remainder of his signing bonus to his estate, and pay a significant portion of his funeral costs.
As the Minnesota Vikings continue to mourn the tragic loss of rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson, the organization has announced several ways to honor his memory and support his loved ones during this difficult time.
The Vikings will place special "KJ" decals on each player's helmet throughout the season as a tribute to Jackson. The decals will serve as a constant reminder of his presence within the team and the impact he had on his teammates and coaches.
Minnesota Vikings Honor Khyree Jackson with Special Decals and Financial Support
The Vikings have pledged to pay out the remainder of Jackson's signing bonus, totaling $827,148, to his estate. This gesture demonstrates the organization's commitment to providing financial support to Jackson's family and loved ones.
In addition, the Vikings will cover a "significant portion" of Jackson's funeral costs, according to the Minneapolis Star-Tribune's Ben Goessling. This generous contribution reflects the team's desire to ease the financial burden on Jackson's family during this trying time.
Minnesota Vikings Honor Khyree Jackson with Special Decals and Financial Support
Several Vikings representatives, including general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, head coach Kevin O'Connell, and assistant coaches Brian Flores, Matt Daniels, and Daronte Jones, will attend Jackson's funeral, scheduled for this Friday, to pay their respects and offer support to his loved ones.
Jackson's jersey number, 31, will not be worn by any Vikings player this season as a sign of respect to his memory and legacy. The number will remain retired until a later date, allowing the Vikings organization and Jackson's loved ones to properly grieve his passing.
Minnesota Vikings Honor Khyree Jackson with Special Decals and Financial Support
Jackson's untimely death occurred in a car accident in Maryland two weeks ago. His high school teammates, Isaiah Hazel and Anthony "AJ" Lytton, also died in the crash. Maryland State Police determined that Hazel, who was driving the vehicle, attempted to change lanes at a high speed when the collision occurred.
Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident and have indicated that alcohol may have been a contributing factor. No charges have been filed at this time, but the investigation remains open.
In the wake of Jackson's passing, O'Connell released a heartfelt statement expressing the Vikings' deep sorrow: "Khyree brought a contagious energy to our facility and our team. His confidence and engaging personality immediately drew his teammates to him."
Despite his brief time with the Vikings, Jackson left an enduring mark on the organization and his fellow players. His positive attitude, infectious enthusiasm, and unwavering determination will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.
