The Vikings play through their next season by honoring their Khyree Jackson, who tragically lost his life in a car accident on July 6.
“This is the first time that I’ve been able to speak since after, you know, my brother’s tragic passing, Khyree,” rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy said Friday of Jackson, who died in a Maryland wreck.
“I just want to say, you know, everything that the Vikings’ have done to honor him and his family has been something that is, you know, truly astounding and something that we all didn’t expect. So, I really appreciate the Will family, coach [Kevin] O’Connell and everybody for what they’re doing for Khyree and his family, and uh, you know, this season is for him.”
At the start of their training camp on Monday, the Vikings announced that the cornerback’s designated locker and jersey number, 31, wouldn’t be used this year.
Moreover, the Vikings helmets will have the initials “KJ” engraved, with staff members wearing special pins, Sports Illustrated reported.
The outlet reported that in addition to adding stenciling to the Vikings’ practice fields, the team will pay Jackson’s $827,000 signing bonus to his estate.
The organization helped with the funeral expenses — which was held on Friday — by contributing $20,000.
O’Connell, the Vikings’ head coach, was one of many who attended the funeral.
He paid tribute by highlighting what Jackson meant to the team.
“We all quickly realized that Khyree was a special teammate,” O’Connell said. “He was committed to working hard for something that was bigger than himself.”
O’Connell emphasized how the season would be dedicated to the late 24-year-old.
“We will honor Khyree all season long,” O’Connell said. “When you tune in to watch Minnesota Viking games, you will be able to visually remember Khyree each Sunday.”
The coach had an emotional ending to his speech.
“He made an impact,” O’Connell said.
“Thank you, Khyree, for being everything that we hoped for when we drafted you… There was just something about you that drew us closer and closer… We promise that you will be with us every step of the way [this season].”
