Arizona Cardinals cornerback Jeff Gladney has tragically died aged 25.
The 2020 first-round pick - who was selected 31st overall by the Minnesota Vikings - entered the NFL after starring at Texas Christian University (TCU) for four seasons. News of Gladney’s death was first made public by Eagles wide receiver Jalen Reagor, who played with Gladney in colllege.
"Lost my Brother, my best friend, my right hand man," said Reagor on Twitter. "Ain't too much more I can take man, damn! R.I.P Jeff Gladney. Brother watch over me please."
No details have been released, but Gladney's agent confirmed his death. His agent, Brian Overstreet, told the Ft. Worth Star-Telegram that Gladney was killed in a car accident during the early hours of Monday morning, adding: "We are asking prayers for the family and privacy at this most difficult time."
Gladney, who hailed from New Boston, Texas, started all but one game during a successful rookie campaign with the Vikings, but was released before the 2021 season following a domestic assault charge. The cornerback didn't play at all in 2021, but was found not guilty and subsequently signed with the Cardinals.
He entered the NFL after building a reputation as a top-tier corner at college level, leaving the TCU Horned Frogs with first-team All-Big 12 honours in 2019 after securing second-team accolades the year before. Gladney was one of the most heralded prospects in his position heading into the draft, securing a first round selection.
The Cardinals released a statement upon the surfacing of the tragic news.
"We are devastated to learn of Jeff Gladney's passing," the statement read, as reported by NFL journalist Mike Garafolo. "Our hearts go out to his family, friends and all who are mourning this tremendous loss."
Three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year JJ Watt also took to social media to pay his respects to his teammate, writing: "Horrifying news to hear this morning. Just tragic. Rest In Peace Jeff".
It is the latest piece of horrific news to strike the NFL this offseason. Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins died aged 24, with an autopsy report released last week revealing he was legally drunk and had taken drugs before he was fatally hit by a truck while walking on a Florida highway last month.
