Ex-Chargers, Bucs star Vincent Jackson dies at 38

Former San Diego Chargers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers star Vincent Jackson was found dead Monday at a Homewood Suites hotel in Brandon, Fla., the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office announced.

Police are investigating, and a cause of death hasn't been determined. Jackson, 38, was a three-time Pro Bowl wide receiver who last played for the Buccaneers in 2016.

"My heart aches for the many loved ones Vincent Jackson leaves behind, from his wife and children to the Buccaneers nation that adored him," Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a statement, according to WFLA 8. "Mr. Jackson was a devoted man who put his family and community above everything else. Football aside, he touched countless lives through his Jackson In Action 83 Foundation.

"We shared a passion for supporting military families, and three years ago, Jackson was even made an honorary deputy by the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office to recognize his dedication to the community. He will be sorely missed by not only football fans across the country, but also the people here in Hillsborough County who reaped the benefits of his generous contributions."

A housekeeper at the hotel discovered Jackson deceased in his room at approximately 11:30 a.m, according to the police report. There were no apparent signs of trauma.

Jackson checked into the hotel on Jan. 11. His family reported him missing on Feb. 10, but the case was canceled on Feb. 12 after deputies located Jackson, spoke to him, and assessed his well-being.

Jackson was the Chargers' second-round pick in 2005, and he posted three 1,000-plus-yard seasons in San Diego. A contract dispute led to his departure, and he inked a five-year, $55.5-million deal with the Buccaneers in March 2012.

The wideout then recorded three consecutive 1,000-plus-yard seasons in Tampa Bay. He finished his last two years with the Buccaneers on the injured reserve, and Jackson announced his retirement in May 2018 after going unsigned the previous season.