Jacoby Jones, a former NFL wide receiver and return specialist, passed away peacefully at his home in New Orleans on Sunday. The news of his passing at the age of 40 has left the football community in mourning.
Jones is perhaps best remembered for his pivotal role in the Baltimore Ravens’ triumphant 2012 Super Bowl season. The Ravens released a heartfelt statement expressing their “deepest condolences” to Jones’ family, encapsulating the widespread sorrow felt by many.
Expressing his grief, Ravens head coach John Harbaugh said, “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.”
A Prolific Career
Jones’ career is highlighted by several remarkable achievements. He recorded the longest kickoff return in Super Bowl and postseason history, an unforgettable 108-yard touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl XLVII. Jones also caught a 56-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Joe Flacco in the same game, amassing a staggering 290 total yards—setting a Super Bowl record. Together, these efforts were instrumental in securing the Ravens' victory.
In a testament to his clutch performances, Jones scored a crucial 70-yard receiving touchdown in the AFC divisional round against the Denver Broncos, helping Baltimore clinch a 38-35 win in double-overtime. His remarkable performances that season earned him First-Team All-Pro honors and a Pro Bowl selection.
Jones holds 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). With the Houston Texans, where he spent his first five NFL seasons after being drafted in the third round in 2007, Jones set the franchise record for career punt return average (10.2 yards).
After leaving the Ravens, Jones had brief stints with the San Diego Chargers and Pittsburgh Steelers in 2015 before officially retiring as a Raven in 2016. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin expressed his sympathy, stating, “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 Contributions
Following his retirement from professional football, Jones continued to influence the sport, particularly at the grassroots level. As the head coach for the Beaumont Renegades football club in Beaumont, Texas, he dedicated himself to nurturing young talent. Sam Gordon, owner of the Renegades, captured Jones' post-retirement dedication, saying, “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' legacy extends beyond his on-field accomplishments. The Baltimore Ravens’ statement poignantly underscored this, “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 is a significant loss to the football community and to all who were fortunate enough to know him. As those who knew and admired Jacoby Jones reflect on his remarkable life, his legacy is certain to endure.