On Monday, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s office announced Vincent James, a wide receiver, who played for the Buccaneers and the Chargers, was found dead in a hotel room at the Homewood Suites, Florida at around 11.30 a.m. ET by a housekeeper.
A news release had said the three-time Pro Bowler (2009, 2011, 2012) was staying in the Homewood Suites. He had been reported as missing by his family on Wednesday according to the Sheriff’s office. He was found by officers the next day. Authorities had enquired about his well-being and had assessed him. They closed the missing persons case.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff released a statement saying that his heart ached for the loved ones whom Vincent Jackson has left behind such as his wife, his children and the Buccaneers nation who adored him. He also mentioned that not only football fans but also the county, which benefited from Jackson’s largesse, would miss him. The county Sheriff’s office made him an honorary deputy for his dedication to the county.
Spokesperson Crystal Clark confirmed to USA TODAY Sports that the case is being investigated but the Pro Bowler’s body had “no apparent signs of trauma.” The authorities have no reason to believe that a crime had occurred nor do they suspect foul play. The cause of death has not been notified by the Medical Examiner’s office in the county till Monday evening.
Vincent Jackson was born in Colorado Springs in Colorado. His parents were army veterans. A high school graduate with a 4.1 grade point average, he was a star athlete playing basketball and football at Northern Colorado. His height – 6 feet and 5 inches and fantastic physique proved to be an advantage in both the sports.
In the 2005 draft, the San Diego Chargers selected him in the second round and he became a starter in 2006. He was with the team for seven years. Between 2009 and 2012 he made three Pro Bowls.
In 2012, he signed as a free agent with Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The wide receiver played his last game in 2016 before becoming an injured reserve due to a knee injury and retired in 2018. His career statistics are catching 540 passes for 9,080 yards and 57 touchdowns.
Jackson dedicated his time, money and efforts for military families, through his foundation; more so after his retirement. The Chargers and the Buccaneers mentioned his exemplary work as well as his fantastic play on the field in separate statements.
