Former NFL wide receiver and return specialist Jacoby Jones passed away peacefully at his home in New Orleans on Sunday. Jones, who recently turned 40, was celebrated for his exceptional contributions to the Baltimore Ravens’ 2012 Super Bowl victory.
The Baltimore Ravens expressed their deepest condolences to Jones' family in a heartfelt statement, underscoring the profound impact he had on the organization 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."
A Record-Breaking Career
Jones etched his name in NFL history with remarkable performances throughout his career. In Super Bowl XLVII, he recorded the longest kickoff return in both Super Bowl and postseason history with a stunning 108-yard touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers. Adding to his legacy, Jones caught a 56-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Joe Flacco in the same game, amassing a staggering 290 total yards to set a Super Bowl record.
Jones' penchant for delivering in critical moments was also evident in the AFC divisional round that year, where he scored a pivotal 70-yard receiving touchdown against the Denver Broncos, propelling the Ravens to a 38-35 double-overtime victory. His incredible performances during the 2012 season earned him Pro Bowl honors and a First-Team All-Pro selection.
Impact Beyond the Field
After being drafted in the third round by the Houston Texans in 2007, Jones spent his first five NFL seasons in Houston, setting the franchise record for career punt return average at 10.2 yards. His career blossomed further when he joined the Ravens in 2012, where he set multiple franchise records, including the highest career kickoff return average (30.1 yards) and the highest single-season kickoff return average (30.7 yards in 2012).
Following his tenure with the Ravens, Jones had brief stints with the Chargers and Steelers in 2015 before officially retiring as a Raven in 2016. Post-retirement, Jones dedicated himself to nurturing young talent by serving as the head coach for the Beamont Renegades football club in Beaumont, Texas.
Sam Gordon, owner of the Beamont Renegades, remembered Jones fondly: "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."
A Fond Farewell
Jones' passing has sent ripples of sorrow through the NFL community. Ravens head coach John Harbaugh shared heartfelt words about the late star: "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, who coached Jones during his brief time with Pittsburgh, also offered 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."
Jones is survived by his son, also named Jacoby, and his mother, Emily. His legacy on and off the field will be remembered by teammates, coaches, and fans who admired his dedication and kindness. Jacoby Jones' impact is indelible, a testament to the joy he brought to the game of football and the lives he touched beyond it.