It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jimmy Boyd Wilkerson Jr., a former professional football player whose legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him and the players he mentored. Wilkerson, a standout defensive end and outside linebacker from Omaha, Texas, passed away today at the age of 43.
He leaves behind a remarkable legacy in the world of football, both as a player and a coach. Born on January 4, 1981, Wilkerson grew up in Omaha, Texas, and attended Pewitt High School, where his passion and talent for football quickly became evident. After a standout high school career, he took his talents to the University of Oklahoma, where he played college football for the Sooners.
Wilkerson’s time at Oklahoma was marked by impressive statistics—130 tackles, 35 stops for loss, 12 sacks, and numerous quarterback pressures. His performance in college caught the attention of NFL scouts, and in 2003, he was selected in the sixth round of the NFL Draft by the Kansas City Chiefs.
Wilkerson’s professional career spanned several teams, including the Kansas City Chiefs, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New Orleans Saints, and Seattle Seahawks. Known for his versatility and determination, he was a force on the field, racking up impressive numbers in both sacks and tackles.
His best season came in 2009 with the Buccaneers, where he started all 15 games and set career highs in tackles (46), sacks (6), and forced fumbles (2). Unfortunately, a torn ACL cut his season short, but Wilkerson’s resilience remained a hallmark of his career. Following his playing days, Wilkerson transitioned into coaching, sharing his wealth of knowledge and passion for the game with the next generation of players.
He began his coaching career as a pass rush specialist and defensive line coach at Texas A&M–Commerce in 2017. Later, he moved on to become a defensive lineman coach at Carl Albert High School in Midwest City, Oklahoma, where he continued to influence young athletes and help shape their futures both on and off the field.
Wilkerson’s impact extended beyond the field. He was known for his work ethic, his commitment to excellence, and his genuine care for others. As a coach, he was dedicated to developing his players, instilling in them the same passion for the game that had driven him throughout his career.
He will be remembered not only for his football accomplishments but also for his integrity, kindness, and the lasting impression he left on everyone he encountered. The football community has lost a true champion today, and our thoughts are with his family, friends, and former teammates during this incredibly difficult time.
