Former NFL star Jacoby Jones, a name synonymous with game-changing plays on the grandest stage, passed away peacefully at his home in New Orleans on Sunday. Known for his electrifying presence on the field, Jones had turned 40 just a few days earlier.
Jones etched his name into NFL lore with a series of unforgettable performances, the most iconic being his pivotal role in the Baltimore Ravens' 2012 Super Bowl victory. That year, Jones recorded a 108-yard kickoff return for a touchdown in Super Bowl XLVII, setting a record for the longest in both Super Bowl and postseason history. In the same game, he snagged a 56-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Joe Flacco, amassing a Super Bowl-record 290 total yards and cementing his legacy in the annals of the sport.
The Baltimore Ravens released a heartfelt statement expressing their "deepest condolences" to Jones' family. The NFL Players Union also issued a statement on behalf of Jones' family, highlighting the unity and respect he garnered during his career.
Jones' talent extended beyond his Super Bowl heroics. In the 2012 AFC divisional round against the Denver Broncos, he caught a crucial 70-yard touchdown pass that propelled the Ravens to a dramatic 38-35 double-overtime victory. His prolific career saw him hold the Ravens' records for the highest career kickoff return average (30.1 yards) and the highest single-season kickoff return average (30.7 yards in 2012). Even dating back to his time with the Houston Texans, Jones left an indelible mark, holding the franchise record for career punt return average (10.2 yards).
Drafted in the third round by the Houston Texans in 2007, Jones spent the first five seasons of his NFL career in Houston before joining the Baltimore Ravens in 2012. His time with the Ravens was marked by significant achievements, including becoming a First-Team All-Pro returner and earning Pro Bowl honors. Following brief stints with the Chargers and Steelers in 2015, Jones officially retired as a Raven in 2016. Post-retirement, he served as the head coach for the Beamont Renegades football club in Beaumont, Texas, demonstrating his commitment to nurturing the next generation of athletes.
Jones' legacy extends beyond the football field. He was cherished by teammates, coaches, and fans alike for his infectious enthusiasm and unwavering faith. Ravens head coach John Harbaugh shared his personal sentiments, stating, “I loved Jacoby Jones, we all did. His spirit, enthusiasm, and love for people were powerful. He was a light. He was the cherished son of his loving mom, Ms. Emily. They were so close. He was a man of faith. My favorite Jacoby personal moment was every time I saw his smiling face full of joy. Rest in peace, Jacoby, in the arms of Jesus.”
Steelers coach Mike Tomlin also extended his condolences, recalling his time coaching Jones: "My heartfelt sympathy goes out to the family of Jacoby Jones during this difficult time. I enjoyed coaching him during his time with the Steelers.”
Sam Gordon, owner of the Beamont Renegades, echoed these sentiments: “He was the best, he loved everyone. I think one of the most important things is he was a man of God. He was proud of how much he loved and feared his God. What was most important to him after football was helping the next person in line. He was the most humble and kind person to anybody who gave him the time and needed the time from him.”
The Baltimore Ravens emphasized the personal connections Jones forged throughout his career in their statement: “We are completely heartbroken to learn about the passing of Jacoby Jones. Jacoby had the unique ability to connect with everyone he encountered. His charisma, joy, and love created a one-of-a-kind presence that could light up any room or brighten any dark day. Jacoby will long be remembered not just for his success on the football field, but for the lasting personal connections he made with countless people in the Ravens organization, Baltimore community, and every area he called home. We share our deepest condolences with Jacoby’s family as we all begin to process this devastating loss.”
Jones is survived by his son, also named Jacoby, and his mother, Emily. His passing marks the end of a life filled with remarkable achievements, both on and off the football field, leaving a legacy that will inspire generations to come.