TAMPA, Fla — Fans in the Tampa Bay area, former teammates, and those who have crossed paths with former Buccaneers wide receiver Vincent Jackson are mourning his death.
Jackson was found dead on Feb. 15 at a Brandon hotel, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office. The 38-year-old had checked in on Jan. 11 and had been staying there ever since.
Deputies say the Buccaneer great was found dead in his hotel room by a housekeeper three days after the sheriff's office closed a missing person case on him.
The hospitality entrepreneur, who gave back to his community through his Jackson in Action 83 Foundation, made a lasting impact on the Bay area.
Here's what the community is sharing about their time with a man who will be "remembered as one of the best players in Buccaneers franchise history."
Tampa Bay Buccaneers:
"We are shocked and saddened to hear the terrible news regarding the loss of Vincent Jackson. During his five seasons with our franchise, Vincent was a consummate professional, who took a great deal of pride in his performance on and off the football field. Vincent was a dedicated father, husband, businessman and philanthropist, who made a deep impact on our community through his unyielding advocacy for military families, supported by the Jackson in Action 83 Foundation. He was a three-time Pro Bowl selection for his accomplishments on the field, but his greatest achievements as a Buccaneer were the four consecutive nominations he earned as our Walter Payton Man of the Year. Our deepest condolences go out to his wife, Lindsey, and the entire Jackson family," wrote Bryan Glazer, Buccaneers owner and co-chairman.
Buccaneers General Manager Jason Licht
The team's GM said Jackson built his legacy in the community by always being there for military families.
Tampa Bay Sports Commission Executive Director Rob Higgins:
Higgins sent his thoughts to Jackson's family and shed light on his charitable work when paying tribute to the former Buc.
Higgins and 10 Tampa Bay anchor Ryan Bass spoke to Jackson in 2020 on the Tampa Bay 55 podcast about being a hospitality entrepreneur, having military roots and doing charitable work.
Jackson in Action 83 Foundation:
Jackon's namesake foundation shared about the loss and thanked the public for their condolences.
Buccaneer wide receiver Mike Evans:
The Super Bowl LV champ and career Buccaneer thanked Jackson for all he has done and sent prayers to his family.
Former Buccaneer Gerald McCoy:
Jackson's long-time teammate shared a touching tribute on Twitter for his friend, later adding "This one is hurting for real man!!"
Buccaneers left tackle Donovan Smith:
Smith played with Jackson in Tampa Bay who tweeted "Nah, this can't be life WTF?!!!" as he first learned the news.
Former teammate DJ Swearinger:
Swearinger played with Jackson in 2015 and sent prayers to his family.
Former Buccaneer Mike Alstott:
”We’re in shock along with the rest of the Tampa Bay and NFL community. Vincent was a professional on the field and a champion in our community. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones.”
University of Northern Colorado Football:
Jackson's alma mater paid tribute to "one of the greatest Bears of all time."
St. Pete Mayor Rick Kriseman:
The Bay area mayor shared his memories of getting to know Jackson who he described as a "bright light."
Tampa Mayor Jane Castor:
Tampa's mayor offered the following statement:
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Vincent Jackson. His contributions to our community as a former Buccaneer, businessman and philanthropist are beyond reproach, and his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched. Vince’s family and friends are in our thoughts during this difficult time.”
WWE Superstar Titus O'Neil:
O'Neil paid tribute to Jackson on Twitter, calling him both a good man and a great friend.
Former Buccaneer Shaun King:
King sent his prayers to Jackson's family during this time as he was shocked to learn the news.
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