Jeff Gladney, who was signed by the Arizona Cardinals, died in a car crash on Monday in Dallas on the service road of Woodall Rodgers Freeway. Gladney, 25, played defensive back.

Gladney’s death was confirmed by the Cardinals on Monday. The team wrote in a social media post, “We are devastated to learn of Jeff Gladney’s passing. Our hearts go out to his family, friends and all who are mourning this tremendous loss.”

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Who was Jeff Gladney?

Jeff Gladney, a native of Texas’ New Boston, was born on December 12, 1996. Gladney had reportedly been interested in football since his days at school. He went to the New Boston High School followed by Texas Christian University.

His football career kicked off when the played for the Texas Christian University’s team. He was Minnesota Vikings‘ first-round draft pick in 2020. In his short-lived time with the team, Gladney played in 16 games that year.

He was later released by the Minnesota Vikings before the 2021 season after his rookie season ended. At this time, Gladney was also tied to a domestic abuse case due to which he remained undrafted in the 2021 season.

Gladney was found not guilty earlier this year by a court in Dallas County, Texas.

The Cardinals signed the cornerback to a two-year deal on March 16 and he was expected to compete for a starting job with Arizona this offseason.

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Multiple NFL big-shots poured in their condolences late Monday after Gladney’s death was confirmed. Jalen Reagor, a wide receiver for the Philadelphia Eagles, wrote in a social media post: “Lost my brother, my best friend, my right-hand man.”

“Horrifying news to hear this morning. Just tragic. Rest In Peace Jeff”, Glandney’s teammate JJ Watt wrote.