Arizona Cardinals cornerback Jeff Gladney was killed in a car accident Monday morning in Dallas, according to the team’s official website.
Gladney, 25, was among the two people who died in the crash, according to Citizen Free Press affiliate WFAA. Citizen Free Press has reached out to Gladney’s agent for comment.
The crash occurred around 2:30 a.m. and involved two vehicles, according to a news release from the Dallas County Sheriff’s Department. A preliminary investigation found that a white vehicle was speeding and struck a second vehicle from behind.
The white vehicle then lost control and hit a freeway dock beam, killing the man and woman inside, the statement said. The second vehicle was also occupied by a man and a woman, who were uninjured.
NFL career
Gladney was entering the third season of his NFL career, after playing college football at Texas Christian University. The Minnesota Vikings drafted him in the first round in 2020, but the team released him before the 2021 season after he was indicted on felony assault charges, according to the NFL website.
Gladney was found not guilty in the incident, and the Cardinals signed him to a two-year contract in March 2022. He had recently been working out with the team during organized NFL team practices.
Reactions to the death of Jeff Gladney
“We are devastated to learn of the passing of Jeff Gladney,” the Cardinals tweeted Monday. “Our hearts go out to his family, friends and all who are mourning this tremendous loss.”
The Vikings also released a statement, saying they were saddened by Gladney’s death.
“Our hearts go out to his family and friends, as well as the Arizona Cardinals organization and Jeff’s current and former teammates and coaches who are mourning the loss of his life too soon,” the statement read. equipment.
NFL players from across the league expressed their condolences via Twitter.
“Horrible news this morning. Just tragic. Rest in peace Jeff,” Cardinals defensive end JJ Watt tweeted..
“I lost my brother, my best friend, my right hand man,” the Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver tweeted. Jalen Reagore, who also attended Texas Christian University. “RIP Jeff Gladney bro take care of me please,” he added.