Former NFL Wide Receiver Vincent Jackson was pronounced dead at the age of 38 on February 15. Jackson was found unresponsive at the Homewood Suites in Brandon, Florida at approximately 11:30 a.m. on Monday. Members of the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office reportedly found no signs of trauma and the Hillsborough County Medical Examiner's Office will work to determine the cause of death. As of now, the sheriff's office has shared that Jackson's death remains an open investigation.
Jackson reportedly checked in to Homewood Suites on January 11 and had stayed there until his death. Four days before his passing, members of the Jackson family filed a missing persons report for Jackson. However, authorities were able to contact and speak to Jackson. As a result, the formal search was ended.
Jackson is well known for his 12-year long career in the NFL. During his playing days, he spent time in both Tampa Bay and San Diego playing alongside the likes of Antonio Gates, LaDanian Tomlinson and Phillip Rivers. Over the course of his career, he scored 57 touchdowns and piled up more than 9,000 receiving yards.
"We are shocked and saddened to hear the terrible news regarding the loss of Vincent Jackson," Tampa Bay Buccaneers Owner Bryan Glazer said.
"Vincent was a fan favorite not only for his Pro Bowl play on the field but for the impact he made on the community off of it. The work he has done on behalf of military families through his foundation in the years since his retirement has been an inspiration to all of us. We simply cannot believe he's gone, and our hearts go out to his wife, Lindsey, their children, his parents, former teammates and everyone whose lives were touched by having known Vincent," the San Diego Chargers added.
Jackson's family has also asked for privacy at this time.
Photo Credit: Getty Images