Rest in peace. At the age of 25, Jeff Gladney, an Arizona Cardinals player, was involved in a car accident.
The team announced Gladney’s passing via Twitter on Monday, May 30, writing in a statement, “We are devastated to learn of Jeff Gladney’s passing. Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and all who are mourning this tremendous loss.”
Brian Overstreet, the TCU alum’s agent, also confirmed the heartbreaking news to the Fort Worth Star Telegram, noting, “We are asking prayers for the family and privacy at this most difficult time.”
According to WFAA, Gladney was one of the two victims in the fatal accident that occurred in Dallas. The other victim was an unidentified woman. The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday morning, and the Dallas County Sheriff’s Office is still investigating the cause of the crash. After colliding with a second vehicle from behind, the vehicle was speeding and lost control.
“He was very loved by us all,” the NFL player’s cousin Sharonda FrancoisWFAA. “He was an all-around good kid and his contagious smile is what he was known for. … He hosted football camps, he took care of our kids at family gatherings. He was still the same down-to-earth cousin, even though money didn’t change him. He was just so well-loved.”
Tributes began pouring in from fellow athletes after news of Gladney’s death made headlines. The NFL tweeted on Monday that the organization wanted to “extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.”
Gladney, who was a short-term player with the Minnesota Vikings, recently signed a 2-year contract with Cardinals. “We are saddened by the tragic death of former Viking Jeff Gladney,” a Twitter statementThe following was written by the Minneapolis-based team. “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 his life lost much too soon.”
NFL star Robert Griffin III reflected on the loss in a social media post of his own, writing, “Rest In Peace Jeff Gladney. The Arizona Cardinals’ 25-year-old cornerback has died. There is so much life ahead. Send a prayer up for him, his family and friends after this tragic loss.”
JJ Watt, who signed with the Cardinals in March 2021, called Gladney’s passing “horrifying” and “tragic,” while fellow TCU alum Jalen Reagor tweeted, “Lost my Brother, my best friend, my right hand man… ain’t too much more I can take man damn! R.I.P Jeff Gladney, brother watch over me please.”
Scroll down to find out more about the late Olympic athlete.
