Ex-NFL star, 30, dies in horror car crash as three | NFL News

A much-loved former NFL participant has been killed in a devastating car crash which left three others hospitalised. Chris Payton-Jones was driving a sedan in Florida over the weekend when he was concerned in a head-on collision with a pickup truck. He died at the scene, while the truck’s three passengers had been taken to hospital with minor accidents.

Payton-Jones’ death was confirmed by his household, sparking a wave of tributes on social media to honour his legacy. He was concerned in 4 NFL seasons, representing the Detroit Lions, Arizona Cardinals, Tennessee Titans, Minnesota Vikings and Las Vegas Raiders between 2018 and 2022. He was also a widespread content creator, launching his YouTube channel while still enjoying.

After leaving the NFL, the 30-year-old continued his profession in different leagues including the United Football League (UFL) and XFL.

Following the news of his death, the UFL launched a poignant assertion describing him as a ‘vibrant soul’ who carried himself with ‘humility and integrity’ at all occasions.

They said: “The United Football League is in mourning after the tragic passing of former St Louis Battlehawks defensive back Chris Payton-Jones.

“Chris was a beloved team-mate and chief in the locker room who demonstrated the significance of arduous work, dedication and resilience throughout his profession.

“As importantly, Chris was always a bright soul who everyone throughout the league enjoyed spending time with off-the-field throughout his three-year tenure.

“From fan appearances and media engagements to his own content creation and openness to share the highs and lows of his personal journey, Chris carried himself with humility and integrity.

“Our condolences are with his family, friends, team-mates and all others who are impacted by this loss.”

Adam Geis, who coached Payton-Jones at Sandalwood High School before his NFL breakthrough, told News4 that he was a particular individual with a distinctive work ethic.

“He was one of my all-time favourites,” said Geis. “The kid never missed a workout, never missed practice and never wanted to come off the field. Everyone loved him.

“He was always unbelievably constructive. I’ve never heard that child ever say something damaging about anybody or something. It was always a pleasure to be around him. You had been always pleased to see him.”

It comes just months after Peyton-Jones announced his retirement from football, saying in a statement: “Thank you God for giving me the power to play this recreation at the very best degree.

“From the moment I understood what football was, this dream lived inside me and God made it real. I beat the statistics. I faced obstacles and I overcame them.

“I’ve no regrets. I performed this recreation the fitting approach and gave it every thing I had. For those who actually know me, the work, the sacrifice and the grind behind the scenes.

“If you turn on the tape, you’ll see it for yourself. I’m honoured to have played alongside Hall of Famers and to have competed against the best in the world. I’m grateful for every lesson, every battle and every brotherhood this game gave me.

“As God closes this chapter of my life, I flip the web page with gratitude and objective, prepared for what’s next. Thank you to everybody who supported me throughout my soccer journey. Thank you, soccer, for altering my life.”

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