He played college football for the TCU Horned Frogs and was a two-time all-conference selection in the Big 12.
Playing at New Boston High School in New Boston, Texas, Gladney was a three-star recruit[1] and signed with Texas Christian University (TCU) to play college football for the TCU Horned Frogs on February 5, 2015,[2] after originally committing to the program on June 6, 2014.
[14] In Week 6 against the Atlanta Falcons, Gladney recorded his first forced fumble on running back Brian Hill which was recovered by the Vikings during the 40–23 loss.
[20] Gladney was close friends with fellow 2020 first round draft pick and Patriots wide receiver Jalen Reagor.
Police reports indicated that Gladney's Mercedes SUV clipped a car while traveling at an excessive speed; his vehicle then spun off the road, crashed into a brick wall, and ignited into flames.