Former NFL quarterback Tarvaris Jackson died Sunday night after being involved in a car crash. He was only 36 years old.
The accident happened about seven miles south of Jackson’s hometown of Montgomery, Ala. While driving, he went off the road and struck a tree before the car got overturned, according to Courtney Cronin of ESPN. Jackson was transported to the hospital and was later pronounced dead.
“The entire Vikings family is saddened by the news of Tarvaris Jackson being taken from us too soon,” the team said in a statement. “One of Tarvaris’ greatest attributes was his positive outlook and approach. He genuinely cared about others, was a good friend and will be missed by family, teammates and Vikings fans everywhere. We send out deepest condolences to his family.”
Jackson was drafted by the Vikings in 2006. He was mostly a backup but made 21 starts. In 2008, he helped the Vikings win the NFC North title.
In 2011, Jackson signed with the Seattle Seahawks. As a starter, he had a 7-7 record before being traded to the Buffalo Bills. He returned to the Seahawks in 2013 as Russell Wilson’s backup and won a Super Bowl ring.
Jackson was a quality control and quarterbacks coach at Alabama State in 2018. Last year, he was the quarterbacks coach at Tennessee State.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jackson’s family and friends.