The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (Florida) said on Monday that it is investigating the death of former NFL wide receiver Vincent Jackson.
Jackson, 38, was found dead at approximately 11:30 am Monday at the Homewood Suites in Brandon, Florida. Police said there were no apparent signs of trauma and the Hillsborough County Medical Examiner’s Office will determine the cause of death.
According to hotel staff, Jackson, who lives in South Tampa, stayed at the hotel on January 11 and has been staying in a room since that date.
Jackson’s family reported his disappearance on Wednesday and a formal report was filed on Thursday, but police located Jackson at Homewood Suites on Friday. The missing persons case was canceled after Jackson’s welfare was confirmed.
“My heart aches for the many loved ones that Vincent Jackson left behind, from his wife and children to the nation of the Buccaneers who adored him,” Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a statement. “Mr. Jackson was a dedicated man who put his family and community above everything else. Football aside, he touched countless lives through his Jackson In Action 83 Foundation. We share a passion for supporting military families and, three years ago , Jackson was evenly named an honorary deputy by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office to acknowledge his dedication to the community. He will be sorely missed not only for football fans across the country, but also for people here in Hillsborough County, who reaped the benefits of their generous contributions. “
The Jackson in Action Foundation 83 tweeted that “Jackson’s wife and family are asking everyone to respect their privacy at this time.”
Jackson last played in the NFL in 2016 with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the team with which he spent the last five seasons of his career. He is fourth in franchise history, with 4,326 receiving yards, and 10th, with 268 receptions.
He played his first seven seasons with the Chargers, who selected him in the second round (61st overall) of the 2005 draft. He is tied for eighth in the franchise’s history in touchdown receptions (37) and is tenth in receiving yards. (4,754).
Overall, he had 540 receptions for 9,080 yards and 57 touchdowns and was selected for three Pro Bowls in his 12-season career.