Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay announced the creation of a memorial scholarship in honor of Colts linebacker Edwin Jackson. Irsay will give a total of $25,000 to help establish the new scholarship. Adam Schefter reported the news on Twitter.
Colts’ owner Jim Irsay announced a $25,000 gift to establish the Edwin Jackson Memorial Scholarship, in honor of the Colts’ LB who lost his life Feb. 4 in a traffic accident. Scholarship will be awarded annually to a qualified student applicant.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 12, 2018
Irsay released a statement:
“Edwin was such a wonderful young man and was beloved by his family and friends across the country, especially by his Colts family here in Indianapolis.We are all better people for having known him, and we already miss him so much… This scholarship will honor Edwin’s memory and his determination, work ethic, and character. My family and the entire Colts organization are proud to have been associated with Edwin, and we are honored to help continue his legacy in the future.”
The scholarship will be given annually to qualified students who apply for it. The Colts are also taking tax-deductible donations on their website.
Irsay also volunteered to pay for the funeral expenses for the family. The funeral was held on Monday in Atlanta.
Edwin Jackson was honored in a Celebration Of Life service today in Atlanta. ?
Chuck Pagano and Chris Ballard were in attendance and shared their memories of 53: pic.twitter.com/F4snuCuMap
— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) February 12, 2018
Jackson was killed earlier this month when a drunk driver struck the vehicle he was riding in. It was reported that Jackson was not feeling well and the driver, Jeffrey Monroe, pulled the vehicle to the side of the road. It was then that another vehicle struck theirs.
Irsay said about the incident:
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jeffrey’s family and friends during these difficult days. Although we didn’t know Jeffrey, we’ve heard nothing but extraordinary things about him, and we are just as heartbroken for his loved ones. May both Edwin and Jeffrey rest in peace.”
