In the very early hours of Monday morning, Arizona Cardinals cornerback Jeff Gladney, 25, died in a car accident. It is reported that a female passenger also died in the crash.

Gladney was a former TCU football star who was a first-round NFL draft pick in 2020. He was initially drafted by the Minnesota Vikings and was signed to a two-year contract with the Cardinals in March.

The death of the young football player shocked the entire football community, prompting many organizations, players, friends and family to share their devastation on social media.

“We are asking prayers for the family and privacy at this most difficult time,” Brian Overstreet, Gladney’s agent, told the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.

The Cardinals also released a statement that read, “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.”

Gladney’s former team, the Vikings, also expressed their sadness over the tragic news, saying, “We are saddened by the tragic death of former Viking Jeff Gladney. 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.”

The athletic director at TCU Jeremiah Donati released a statement saying:

“Our TCU Athletics family, and especially our football program, was very devastated to learn of the passing of Jeff Gladney. After earning his degree and continuing his playing career in the NFL, Jeff maintained his close ties to TCU. He loved everything about his alma mater. He was a frequent visitor to campus and was at our spring practices and games this year, proudly joined by his young son.

He will be missed by our entire community. Our thoughts, prayers and deepest condolences go to Jeff’s family, friends and TCU teammates.”

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