Former TCU standout and current NFL player Jeff Gladney was one of two people killed overnight in a car crash in Dallas.
According to ProFootballTalk.com, Gladney’s agent Brian Overstreet told the Fort Worth Star-Telegram that Gladney, 25, was killed in a car crash early Monday morning. The identity of the second person has not yet been confirmed.
“We are asking prayers for the family and privacy at this most difficult time,” Overstreet said.
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Gladney, of New Boston, Texas, was entering his second season in the league and was recently picked up by the Arizona Cardinals after spending his first season in Minnesota.
ProFootballTalk said Gladney started every game for the Vikings in his rookie year but was released ahead of the 2021 season after he allegedly assaulted a woman in Dallas in April. He didn't play in 2021 and was found not guilty in the offseason -- he then signed with Arizona.
The Cardinals, on Twitter Monday, said they were devastated to learn of Gladney's death and that he participated in organized team activities last week.
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.
Arizona Cardinals
TCU said Monday that after Gladney obtained his degree he was still a frequent visitor on campus and kept close ties to the school. Earlier this year, the school said, Gladney attended spring practice and the spring game with his young son.
“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. 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.”
While playing for the Frogs, Gladney, a redshirt freshman received several honors including a 2020 Senior Bowl Invitation; 2019 Second-Team All-American, FWAA; 2019 Second-Team All-American, Phil Steele; 2019 First-Team All-Big 12; 2019 First-Team AP All-Big 12; 2018 Pro Football Focus First-Team All-Big 12; 2018 Second-Team All-Big 12; 2018 Second-Team AP All-Big 12; and 2017 Honorable-Mention All-Big 12.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
TWO KILLED IN CAR CRASH IN DALLAS
Jeff Gladney is one of two people killed in a car crash in Dallas overnight Sunday, NBC 5 has learned.
The crash took place along a Woodall Rodgers Freeway service road near Allen Street. Gladney and another occupant died at the scene.
The family of Mercedes Palacios, 26, confirmed to NBC-5 on Monday that she was the other person in the Mercedes SUV with Gladney.
John Paul Figueroa said his sister was essential in helping him operate the office of his transportation business.
"She was just a loving, selfless person," Figueroa said. "Just outgoing.” "I know she loved Jeff because they were always together.”
The investigation into the crash is still underway, but officials say speed may have played a role.
JEFF GLADNEY CONDOLENCES
Following news of Gladney's death, teammates joined others in sharing condolences online.
