Former NFL player Vincent Jackson was found dead at a Florida hotel on Monday with the cause of death yet to be determined. He was 38-years-old.
Jackson, who last saw action with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, was previously reported as missing according to a police report. However, police were able to locate and speak to him on Feb. 12 which resulted in the missing person report being canceled.
“Mr. Jackson was a devoted man who put his family and community above everything else. Football aside, he touched countless lives through his Jackson In Action 83 Foundation. We shared a passion for supporting military families, and three years ago, Jackson was even made an honorary deputy by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office to recognize his dedication to the community.
He will be sorely missed by not only football fans across the country, but also the people here in Hillsborough County who reaped the benefits of his generous contributions,” Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a statement.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating Jackson’s death. When his body was discovered, there were no signs of trauma.
Jackson was found at around 11:30 a.m. at the Homewood Suites hotel. According to hotel staffers, the three-time Pro Bowler had been staying there since Jan. 11, CNN reported.
Jackson played 12 seasons in the NFL. Before the Bucs, the 61st pick of the 2005 NFL Draft played for the San Diego Charges from 2005-2011. He finished his career with 540 receptions for 9,080 yards and 57 touchdowns before announcing his retirement in 2018.
Buccaneers owner Bryan Glazer described Jackson as a consummate professional who took great pride in his performance on and off the football field.
“Vincent was a consummate professional, who took a great deal of pride in his performance on and off the football field… Our deepest condolences go out to his wife, Lindsey, and the entire Jackson family,” Glazer said in a statement.
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