Breaking: NFL player found dead, just hours before the Super Bowl

Indianapolis Colts linebacker Edwin Jackson was killed after being run over by a suspected drunk driver early this morning. Indiana State Police confirmed Jackson’s identity and released the information to his family and the NFL earlier today. Jackson was just 26-years-old.

While we typically reserve breaking news on this site to NHL and hockey related matters, the shocking and tragic nature of this story transcends all sports. Jackson was struck by a speeding Ford F-150 while standing next to a vehicle on the shoulder of Interstae 70 in Indianapolis. The driver fled the scene on foot but was apprehended by police a short time later. Police have reported that the driver was both intoxicated and driving without a license.

"We were heartbroken to hear the news of Edwin Jackson's passing," the Colts said in a statement. "Edwin was loved by all in the Colts organization. We admired his outgoing personality, competitive spirit and hard-working mentality. He was well-respected among all with whom he crossed paths, and he will be greatly missed in our locker room and throughout our entire organization. We also understand that another person lost his life in the accident, only adding to our sorrow on this day. We are shocked and saddened by this tragedy, and our thoughts and prayers are with the families of both men during this difficult time."

Rest in peace, Edwin Jackson. Gone, but never forgotten.