Army cornerback Brandon Jackson died Sunday afternoon. He was 20 years old.
Jackson, a sophomore starter from Queens, New York, played in Army's big victory over Rice on Saturday, which gave the Black Knights a 2-0 start for the first time since 1996.
According to the Times Herald-Record, Jackson died in a single-car accident in Westchester County. The team was informed of the news in the afternoon and Sunday's practice was canceled.
"Words cannot describe the grief that our team is feeling over the loss of our brother and friend, Brandon," Army coach Jeff Monken said in an official statement. "He was a beloved teammate and our hearts are with his family at this time of tragedy."
Jackson recorded three tackles in Army's 31-14 win Saturday. A contributor in all 12 games as a freshman, Jackson was as impactful on the field as he was off the field. Comments from coaches and players paint the picture of an energetic defensive back on the rise in college football.
"You challenged me every day to better my craft," Army wide receiver Jeff Ejekam wrote on his Instagram account. "A phenomenal football player, and an even better brother. This season is for you bro."
Several Army players are using their social media accounts to follow Ejekam's lead and dedicate the season to Jackson's memory with the hashtags #Forever28 and #DoItForBJack.
