Chris Payton-Jones has sadly passed away at the age of 30. News 4 Jacksonville reported that the former NFL player's sedan collided head-on with a pickup truck in Alachua County
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The United Football League released a statement upon learning of Chris' death.
"Chris was a beloved teammate and leader in the locker room, who demonstrated the importance of hard work, determination, and resilience throughout his career," the statement read. "As importantly, Chris was always a bright soul who everyone throughout the league enjoyed spending time with off-the-field during his three-year tenure," the statement read in part.
Tributes for Chris have begun to pour in, with former coaches, teammates, and fans all sharing well-wishes and condolences.
"He was one of my all-time favorites! The kid never missed a workout, never missed practice, and never wanted to come off the field. Everyone loved him," Adam Geis, Chris' high school coach said, via News 4 Jacksonville. "He was always unbelievably positive. I've never heard that kid ever say anything negative about anyone or anything. ... It was always a pleasure to be around him. You were always happy to see him."
Chris was the only casualty in the crash. The three people on board the pick-up all escaped the accidents with minor injuries.
Chris Payton-Jones Spent Six Seasons in the NFL
With an NFL career spanning six seasons, Chris suited up for the Lions, Vikings, Titans, and Raiders, playing a total of 29 games.
After leaving the NFL, Chris continued playing football, with his most recent stop being the Seattle Battlehawks of the UFL in 2024. He spent the 2022 season with the SeaDragons of the XFL.
Before turning pro, Chris spent four seasons with the Nebraska Cornhuskers, playing as a defensive back. His freshman season came in 2014, where he played in 11 games, recording seven tackles. As a sophomore he played 13 times, registered 25 tackles. HIs best season can as a Junior, where he recorded 37 tackles in 13 games.
Chris played 7 games as a senior before ultimately heading to the NFL.
Outside of football, Chris was also a mentor in Jacksonville and a content creator. No details regarding his impending funeral have been released.
