Vincent Jackson, the former NFL player found dead at age 38

The Homewood Suites hotel in Brandon, Florida has become the scene of a tragic death. Former NFL player Vincent Jackson passed away at age 38. He was found in his hotel room on February 15, 2021.

The 38-year-old athlete had been staying at the hotel in the Tampa suburb since January 11, the police confirmed.

Although he had left his home in January, his family did not report him missing until February 10, TMZ reports.

Two days after the family's report, police found Jackson in good health. Two deputies from the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office had located him, spoken with him, and concluded that he was fine. They canceled his missing person's report.

The picture changed radically when on the next Monday, February 15, the housekeeper of his hotel entered Vincent Jackson's room and found the athlete lying on the floor, lifeless.

Although no signs of forced entry or violence were found in the room, the Hillsborough County Medical Examiner's Office will determine the cause and time of death through an autopsy.

"Mr. Jackson was a devoted man who put his family and community above all else," Sheriff Chad Chronister commented in a statement to the press.

"My heart aches for the many loved ones Vincent Jackson leaves behind, from his wife and children to the Buccaneers nation that adored him," the statement continued. The football player had been with the Tampa Buccaneers for five years.

In fact, Vincent Jackson had played 12 seasons as a professional, seven of them with the San Diego Chargers (2005-2011) and another five with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

The receiver had been selected by the San Diego Chargers in the second round (61st overall) of the 2005 NFL Draft. He was 22 years old.

Vincent Jackson was a three-time Pro Bowl participant who caught 540 passes for 9,080 yards and 57 touchdowns in 155 games.

His numbers are those of a star, topping 1,000 yards in six of his seasons. In fact, he led the NFL with 19.2 yards per reception in his first season in Tampa Bay (2011-2012).

In addition, Vincent Jackson was a terrific receiver, catching 18 passes for 300 yards and two touchdowns in three postseason games in 2006-2007.

At some point in his young life, however, there was a contest he could not win. While the details are yet unknown, his family and fans will have to cope with the loss of a great star.