Former NFL wide receiver and return specialist Jacoby Jones passed away peacefully at his home in New Orleans on Sunday. He was 40 years old.
Jones is best remembered for his instrumental role in the Baltimore Ravens’ Super Bowl XLVII victory against the San Francisco 49ers. Known for his electrifying play, Jones recorded the longest kickoff return in Super Bowl history with a 108-yard touchdown. He also connected with quarterback Joe Flacco on a 56-yard touchdown pass in that same game, amassing a total of 290 yards, a Super Bowl record.
The Baltimore Ravens, where Jones spent the most memorable years of his career, released a heartfelt statement expressing their “deepest condolences” to his family. “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,” the statement read.
Career Highlights
Jones began his NFL career when he was drafted in the third round by the Houston Texans in 2007. Over his first five seasons with the Texans, Jones made a name for himself as a reliable and dynamic return specialist. He holds the Texans' franchise record for career punt return average, posting an impressive 10.2 yards per return.
In 2012, Jones joined the Baltimore Ravens, where he reached the pinnacle of his professional career. That season, he set Ravens' records for the highest career kickoff return average (30.1 yards) and the highest single-season kickoff return average (30.7 yards). His performance on the field earned him First-Team All-Pro honors as a returner and a Pro Bowl selection. Aside from his record-breaking Super Bowl performance, Jones also scored a crucial 70-yard receiving touchdown in the double-overtime victory against the Denver Broncos during the AFC divisional round, a play that was vital to the Ravens' pursuit of their Super Bowl title.
Post-Retirement and Personal Life
After leaving the Ravens, Jones had brief stints with the Chargers and Steelers in 2015 before officially retiring as a Raven in 2016. Post-retirement, he transitioned into coaching, serving as the head coach for the Beamont Renegades football club in Beaumont, Texas. Sam Gordon, the owner of the Beamont Renegades, spoke warmly of Jones, reflecting on his character and faith: “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. Both played significant roles in his life, and Ravens head coach John Harbaugh fondly remembered Jones’ infectious enthusiasm and close relationship with his mother: “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.”
Coaching Connections
Even after his playing days were over, Jones continued to impact those around him. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin expressed his condolences, highlighting the respect Jones garnered from his peers and coaches alike: “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’ legacy on the field is immortalized in the record books, but it is his off-field connections and the positive influence he had on others that will be remembered most deeply. His untimely passing leaves a void in the world of football, but his bright spirit and the memories he created will endure with those who knew him.
As the NFL community mourns the loss of one of its bright stars, Jacoby Jones' contributions both on and off the field remain a testament to his remarkable character and enduring legacy.