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Jeff Gladney, a cornerback, was a four-year starter at Texas Christian University and participated in the 2020 Senior Bowl before being picked 31st overall by the Vikings in the first round. In 2020, he played in 16 games for the Vikings, starting 15 of them.
Gladney was signed by the Cardinals only a few weeks ago and was present at OTAs last week. Gladney was filmed learning the defense from his colleagues by a local Cardinals reporter.
Gladney turned himself in to authorities in Texas in April 2021, during the NFL offseason, and was arrested on an allegation of domestic assault. Gladney was indicted on August 3, 2021, and the Vikings dismissed him the next day. During the 2021 season, he did not play in the NFL.
Gladney’s death and the reason of the collision are still under investigation.
The Cardinals released a statement saying, “We are heartbroken to learn about Jeff Gladney’s loss.” “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and those who are grieving this tragic loss.”
The Minnesota Vikings selected Gladney in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft. In his debut season, the TCU product started 15 games and totaled 81 tackles, three passes defensed, and one forced fumble. Gladney was dismissed by the Vikings prior of the 2021 season after being charged with criminal assault.
The Vikings released a statement saying, “We are grieved by the unfortunate passing of former Viking Jeff Gladney.” “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends, as well as the Arizona Cardinals organization and Jeff’s current and former teammates and coaches, who are grieving the loss of a life taken much too soon.”
Gladney was signed to a two-year deal by the Cardinals this offseason after being found not guilty in a domestic violence case.
Gladney was found not guilty of all allegations in March 2022, and the Cardinals quickly signed him.
Gladney recently announced on Facebook that he had purchased his mother’s dream home. Gladney’s cousin was the realtor, and it was her first sale.
Gladney joins the NFL in 2020 following a strong career at TCU, where he was named first-team All-Big 12 in 2019 after being named second-team All-Big 12 the year before. Gladney, a product of New Boston, Texas, a town not far northeast of Dallas, was one of the most sought-after players at his position before the draft, and he spent his first season with the Vikings before signing with the Arizona Cardinals as part of their free agency haul this past March.
Gladney’s death has prompted an outpouring of sadness from those closest to him, including Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Jalen Reagor, who played with him at TCU.
Reagor tweeted, “Lost my Brother, my Best Friend, My Right Hand Man.” “Damn, there’s just so much more I can take! Jeff Gladney, rest in peace. Please keep an eye on me, brother.”
This story is still a work in progress. You will hear more as we hear more as far as the cause of the accident.
