NFL rookie Khyree Jackson, two high school teammates killed in a car accident

In a tragic incident that has left the sports community in mourning, Minnesota Vikings rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson and his former high school teammates, Isaiah Hazel and Anthony Lytton, were killed in a car crash in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, early Saturday morning. The accident occurred just before 3:15 a.m., involving three vehicles and claimed the lives of these promising young athletes, per Maryland State Police.

Khyree Jackson, 24, was a rising star in the NFL. Drafted in the fourth round by the Minnesota Vikings in April 2024, Jackson had shown immense potential during his college career at the University of Oregon. Known for his tall and lanky frame, standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 194 pounds, Jackson’s athleticism and engaging personality quickly endeared him to his teammates and coaches.

The crash occurred when the driver of a silver Infiniti, identified as Cori Clingman, attempted to change lanes at a high rate of speed. The Infiniti struck the maroon Dodge Charger where Jackson, Hazel, and Lytton were traveling. The impact caused the Charger to veer off the road and hit multiple tree stumps before stopping. Hazel, who was driving, and Jackson died at the scene. Lytton was taken to the hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

Isaiah Hazel, 23, and Anthony Lytton, 24, were also former football players from Dr. Henry A. Wise Jr. High School. They had formed a close bond with Jackson. Their deaths have deeply affected the local community and the broader sports world. Hazel and Lytton were remembered for their dedication to the sport and camaraderie with teammates.

The Minnesota Vikings organization expressed profound grief over the loss of Jackson. Head coach Kevin O’Connell described Jackson as a player who brought contagious energy to the team and had a bright future ahead of him. “Khyree’s confidence and engaging personality immediately drew his teammates to him,” O’Connell said. “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”.

Vikings General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah also shared his sorrow, highlighting Jackson’s resilience and dedication. “Khyree’s personality captured every room he was in. I’m devastated that his life and everything he had in front of him has been cut short,” Adofo-Mensah said.

Jackson’s journey to the NFL was marked by perseverance. After leaving Arizona Western Community College due to homesickness, he returned to Maryland and worked at a grocery store deli before transferring to the University of Oregon. His determination and hard work paid off when he was drafted by the Vikings, fulfilling his dream of playing at the highest level of football.

Lytton played collegiately at Florida State for two years before transferring to Penn State for the 2021 season. Hazel spent four years at Maryland, appearing in 29 games. Hazel transferred to Charlotte to finish his college career in 2023.

The loss of Khyree Jackson, Isaiah Hazel, and Anthony Lytton is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the impact that young athletes can have on their communities. The three will be remembered for their athletic achievements, and the positive influence they had on those around them. The sports world mourns the loss of these three young men, whose potential and promise were abruptly cut short.