UNC alum, ex-NFL wide receiver Vincent Jackson found dead
Feb 15, 2021, 4:04 PM
The Hillsborough County (Florida) Sheriff’s Office is investigating the death of former NFL wide receiver and University of Northern Colorado talent Vincent Jackson, who was found dead Monday at a hotel in Brandon, Florida.
Jackson, 38, was found by a housekeeper at approximately 11:30 a.m. on Monday, per a release, at the Homewood Suites location near Tampa, Florida.
Hotel staff told authorities Jackson had checked into the hotel on Jan. 11 and stayed in a room since that date, according to the report. Jackson’s family members called to report he was missing on Feb. 10 and a formal report was filed with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office the following day.
On Feb. 12, HCSO deputies located Jackson at the hotel, spoke with him and, after his well-being was assessed, the missing persons case was canceled, per the release.
According to the HCSO, the local medical examiner’s office will determine the cause of death and officially identify Jackson’s remains.
“My heart aches for the many loved ones Vincent Jackson leaves behind, from his wife and children to the Buccaneers nation that adored him,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister in the release. “Mr. Jackson was a devoted man who put his family and community above everything else.”
A 12-year NFL veteran, Jackson attended Widefield High School in Colorado Springs, where he was a standout basketball star as well as football talent.
Jackson, a straight-A student, was accepted to Columbia University but opted instead to play football and basketball at Northern Colorado on a partial scholarship.
After his stay in Greeley, the San Diego Chargers drafted Jackson with the 61st-overall pick in the second round of the 2005 NFL Draft.
Over his professional tenue, Jackson started 137 games, recording 540 receptions, 57 touchdowns and 9,080 yards receiving. He was selected to three Pro Bowls over his career, twice with the Chargers and once with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Jackson finished his career in Tampa and was a resident of the area.
