The Minnesota Vikings will be honoring the late cornerback Khyree Jackson this season by wearing decals on their helmets that read “KJ.” This decision comes as a somber reminder of the tragic loss the team suffered in the offseason.
Khyree Jackson, who was selected by the Vikings in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft as the 108th overall pick, met an untimely end in a fatal traffic collision just two months after being drafted. The young cornerback’s promising career was cut short, leaving a void in the hearts of his teammates and coaches.
In a touching tribute to Jackson, the Vikings will don the “KJ” decal on their helmets, while coaches will wear matching pins to honor his memory. But the team’s gesture doesn’t end there – they have also made the decision to pay Jackson’s full signing bonus to his grieving family, amounting to $206,787 for the 2024 season.
Jackson, who excelled as a cornerback during his collegiate career at Oregon, showcased his talent with three interceptions, seven pass breakups, two sacks, and 34 tackles in the 2023 season. His standout performance earned him a spot on the first-team All-Pac-12 roster in his final year at Oregon, solidifying his status as a rising star in the world of football.
Before his time at Oregon, Jackson navigated a tumultuous path through various community colleges and universities. Starting at Fort Scott CC, he later transferred to East Mississippi Community College in 2020 but faced setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Undeterred, he continued his journey at Alabama in 2021 before finding his footing at Oregon in 2022.
Despite facing challenges and obstacles along the way, Jackson’s determination and perseverance never wavered. His resilience and talent on the field earned him a place in the hearts of his teammates and coaches, who remember him not only as a skilled player but as a beloved friend and teammate. As the Vikings gear up for the upcoming season, they carry a heavy heart but a strong resolve to honor Jackson’s legacy on and off the field.
