“We honor his potential and the way he lived”: Former college footballer Jackson Bailey dies at 22, tributes flow in

Jackson Bailey, the former superstar Prairie View A&M University linebacker, died at 22 years old, the school reported. The cause of death is not yet reported. Friends, family, and loved ones filled social media with their condolences and tributes to the young man whose spirit had the power to bring people together, remembering his legacy, which extended far beyond the field.

Prairie View A&M University and the world of football mourn Jackson Bailey

Prairie View A&M University has publicly honored Jackson Bailey, the former Red Oak High School star and college football player, after his unexpected passing on June 9, 2025. A heartfelt statement from the school’s athletic department celebrated his brief yet impactful presence with the team and his fraternity, Kappa Alpha Psi—Zeta Beta Chapter. “The Prairie View A&M University Department of Athletics extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, teammates, and fraternity brothers of Jackson ‘Jacks’ Bailey, a cherished member of the Panther football program and the PVAMU community,” the university’s statement read.

“Jackson joined the football team for the 2023–24 season. Although he did not appear in any official games, his presence and energy were felt deeply within the locker room and across campus.

A proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.—Zeta Beta Chapter, Jackson exemplified brotherhood, resilience, and purpose. He chose Prairie View A&M to be closer to home, and in doing so, became an unforgettable part of our campus family.

Though his time at PVAMU was brief, the impact he made will resonate for years to come. We honor and remember Jackson ‘Jacks’Bailey not only for his potential and promise but for the way he lived—with purpose, humor, humility, and heart.”

Jackson Bailey first started his football journey as a three-star linebacker recruit for the University of Arizona. Even though he redshirted in 2021, his skill was soon discovered.

He later transferred to Louisiana-Monroe University, where he achieved 14 total stops and one quarterback rush in nine games in the 2022 season. Family members also paid tribute to Bailey on Facebook. “With heavy hearts, we share the passing of my brother, Jackson Phillip Bailey, as of Monday, June 9, 2025,” the statement reads. “A loving son, brother, teammate, LB, and friend—his presence was a gift to everyone who knew him.

Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Funeral details TBA. Rest easy, Baby Boy. We love you.” Also read: Hailee Steinfeld reveals bold wedding choices with NFL star Josh AllenEven though Jackson Bailey's college football career never quite panned out in on-field statistics at Prairie View A&M, the love and respect he gained from his community say everything about the quality of the individual he was. Characterized as living with humor, humility, and heart, Jackson Bailey leaves a legacy that inspires.