The Minnesota Vikings will face the Los Angeles Rams on Monday night in the final game of the NFL Wild Card Round, with a chance to play the Philadelphia Eagles at stake. Throughout their 14-win regular season, the Vikings were deeply inspired by Khyree Jackson, a former Oregon Ducks cornerback, who tragically passed away in a car accident before his rookie season could even begin.
Minnesota drafted Jackson in the fourth round from Oregon, but his life was cut short before the season started. Since then, the Vikings have honored his memory, with many within the organization feeling his presence throughout the year.
On game days, the Vikings maintain the tradition of hanging Jackson’s jersey alongside those of the other players, and they will continue this tribute before their playoff matchup against the Rams. Additionally, they’ve placed a Bible on his seat, open to Jeremiah 29:11, a verse that was significant at Jackson’s celebration of life earlier in the summer: “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not evil, to give you a future and a hope.” This verse has been a constant source of inspiration for the team.
Two other young men also lost their lives in the same tragic accident, which left both the Oregon Ducks and Minnesota Vikings organizations grieving.
Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell expressed his admiration for Jackson, saying, “Khyree brought a contagious energy to our facility and our team. 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.”
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