Former NFL wide receiver and return specialist Jacoby Jones has passed away at the age of 40. He died peacefully at his home in New Orleans on Sunday, leaving a lasting legacy in the NFL, particularly with the Baltimore Ravens, where he played a pivotal role in their 2012 Super Bowl victory.
Jones, renowned for his contributions to the Ravens' Super Bowl XLVII win, recorded an astounding 108-yard kickoff return touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers, a play that still holds the record for the longest kickoff return in both Super Bowl and postseason history. Additionally, he caught a 56-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Joe Flacco in the same game, accumulating a remarkable 290 total yards—setting a Super Bowl record.
The Baltimore Ravens expressed their profound sorrow with a statement that conveyed the deep impact Jones had on the team and the community. "We are completely heartbroken to learn about the passing of Jacoby Jones," the statement read. "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' impressive career began when he was drafted by the Houston Texans in the third round of the 2007 NFL Draft. Over five seasons with the Texans, Jones made his mark as a formidable punt returner, holding the franchise record for career punt return average at 10.2 yards. In 2012, he signed with the Baltimore Ravens, where he achieved First-Team All-Pro honors and earned a Pro Bowl selection for his exceptional performance as a return specialist.
His impact extended beyond individual accolades; his contributions in critical moments defined the Ravens' path to victory. In the AFC divisional round against the Denver Broncos, Jones made a crucial 70-yard receiving touchdown that helped Baltimore edge out a 38-35 double-overtime win. His achievements that season etched his name into Ravens lore, setting franchise records for the highest career kickoff return average at 30.1 yards and the highest single-season kickoff return average at 30.7 yards.
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh reflected on Jones' character and influence. "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," Harbaugh shared.
Jones' career also included brief stints with the San Diego Chargers and Pittsburgh Steelers in 2015, before he officially retired as a Raven in 2016. His time with the Steelers, though brief, left an impression on head coach Mike Tomlin, who expressed his condolences. "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."
Post-retirement, Jones continued to influence the world of football as he took on the role of head coach for the Beaumont Renegades football club in Beaumont, Texas. Sam Gordon, owner of the Beamont Renegades, honored Jones' commitment to helping others. "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."
Jones is survived by his son, also named Jacoby, and his mother, Emily, who was a cornerstone figure in his life. The NFL Players Union has issued a statement on behalf of the Jones family, recognizing the significant loss the football community is experiencing.
Jacoby Jones' legacy as a dynamic football player and a cherished individual will remain in the hearts of fans, colleagues, and loved ones. His remarkable achievements on the field and his inspiring, faith-driven life off the field ensure that his memory will endure, lighting up the lives of those he touched.