Former Chargers wide receiver Vincent Jackson passed away Monday at the age of 38.
Drafted by the Bolts in 2005, Jackson played seven seasons for the Chargers and earned two Pro Bowls with the team. He finished his career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he earned a third Pro Bowl honor.
Here's a look at reactions from former Chargers players and coaches on Jackson's life.
“Lots of tears and prayers for the Jackson family, as we learned of the tragic news of Vincent’s passing. Vincent was a great teammate and a hell of a friend. I was so proud to watch him go to Tampa Bay, turn into a Captain of the Bucs and a pillar in the community. The last time I spent with him was one of the most memorable, engaging conversations I have ever had with anyone. His loss is a tragedy. I’m heartbroken. You will be missed brother!” - Nick Hardwick
"Today we lost another member of the NFL family and my former teammate, Vincent Jackson. Prayers to the Jackson family." - Akbar Gbaja-Biamila
"My heart feels so heavy at this moment. My heart aches for his family. So many memories have flooded my brain, it becomes overwhelming. Rest in Peace Brother!!! You will be deeply missed." - Mike Goff
"Man, not VJ. He was one of the first players to really welcome me into the locker room in SD. We would talk about his time in Louisiana at Fort Polk in Leesville. He did so many amazing things on and off the field. This one hurts. Rest in Peace, 83." - Jacob Hester
“Man, just now seeing the news of VJ. Damn man. Hell of a teammate. Sending my condolences to the Jackson Family. Our battles on the practice field were so fun. We made each other better. We had a brotherhood in that locker room that was unmatched. You will be missed bro. Damn.” - Antonio Cromartie
"Saddened to hear about the passing of a former teammate Vincent Jackson. What is happening? Gone too soon."- Ben Leber
"This one definitely hurts! Another teammate gone way too soon. My condolences to the Jackson family." - Takeo Spikes
"Sad news. I'm heartbroken by the loss of Vincent Jackson. My prayers go out to his wife Lindsey and his children." - James Lofton
“You come in as teammates and you leave as brothers, some things are hard to understand and hard to figure out why but I’m not questioning God’s plans. I’m going to miss those occasional calls to call me soft and me saying come say it to my face Sweety Pie, lol. VJ” - Shawne Merriman
Vincent Jackson, a second round in the 2005 NFL Draft, spent seven seasons with the Bolts, accruing 272 receptions for 4,754 yards and 37 touchdowns, being honored as a Pro Bowler twice (2009, 2011).
