Arizona Cardinals cornerback Jeff Gladney dies in car crash at 25

May 31 (UPI) -- Former Arizona Cardinals and Minnesota Vikings cornerback Jeff Gladney was killed in a car accident, the NFL teams said. He was 25.

The Cardinals and Vikings said Gladney died Monday morning. Gladney's agent, Brian Overstreet, also confirmed his death.

"We are devastated to learn of Jeff Gladney's passing," the Cardinals said in a statement Monday. "Our hearts go out to his family, friends and all who are mourning this tremendous loss."

The Dallas County Sheriff's Department told WFAA-TV that the cause of the two-car crash is under investigation, but said the victim was speeding and clipped a car from behind. The car then reportedly lost control, crashed and caught fire.

Sources told the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, ESPN and CBS News a female passenger also died in the crash.

Gladney, a former Texas Christian University standout, was a late first-round draft pick of the Minnesota Vikings in the 2020 NFL Draft, but was released from his contract in August 2021 after he was indicted by a Texas grand jury on a charge of felony assault against his former girlfriend.

In March, the Cardinals signed Gladney to a two-year contract after he was found not guilty.

"We are saddened by the tragic death of former Viking Jeff Gladney," the Vikings said in a statement. "Our hearts go out to his family and friends as well as the Arizona Cardinals organization and Jeff's current and former teammates and coaches who are mourning his life lost much too soon."

Several of Gladney's former NFL and college teammates also offered condolences Monday on social media.

"Our TCU Athletics family, and especially our football program, was very devastated to learn of the passing of Jeff Gladney. After earning his degree and continuing his playing career in the NFL, Jeff maintained his close ties to TCU," TCU athletic director Jeremiah Donati said in a statement.

"He loved everything about his alma mater. He was a frequent visitor to campus and was at our spring practices and spring game this year, proudly joined by his young son.

"He will be missed by our entire community. Our thoughts, prayers and deepest condolences go to Jeff's family, friends and TCU teammates."

Gladney became a father last year to son Kingston Gee. He commemorated his son's first birthday in February with an instagram post.