In somber news that has left the sporting community in mourning, former NFL wide receiver and return specialist Jacoby Jones has died peacefully at his home in New Orleans. Jones had celebrated his 40th birthday just days before his passing. His untimely death marks the end of a life that left an indelible mark on the game, particularly during his tenure with the Baltimore Ravens.
A Starring Role in Super Bowl XLVII
Jones was renowned for his pivotal contributions during the Baltimore Ravens’ victorious 2012 Super Bowl campaign. Most notably, he set records that still stand today. Jones recorded the longest kickoff return in Super Bowl and postseason history with a 108-yard touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl XLVII. Additionally, he hauled in a 56-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Joe Flacco, accumulating a staggering 290 total yards in the game—a Super Bowl record.
Condolences from Organizations
The Baltimore Ravens released a heartfelt statement offering their “deepest condolences” to Jones’ 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," the statement read.
The NFL Players Union also issued a statement on behalf of the Jones family, underscoring the broad influence Jones had within the league and beyond.
Record-Setting Career
Jones’ contributions were not limited to one memorable season. For the Ravens, he holds the team records for the highest career kickoff return average (30.1 yards) and the highest single-season kickoff return average (30.7 yards in 2012). He also set a franchise record for career punt return average (10.2 yards) with the Houston Texans, where he began his NFL journey after being drafted in the third round in 2007.
Memorable Moments and Career Path
Jones spent the initial five years of his career with the Texans before joining the Baltimore Ravens in 2012, where he became a First-Team All-Pro returner and earned Pro Bowl honors. After his illustrious period with the Ravens, Jones had brief stints with the San Diego Chargers and the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2015 before officially retiring as a Raven in 2016.
His contributions extended beyond his playing days. Post-retirement, Jones served as head coach for the Beaumont Renegades football club in Beaumont, Texas, where he used his experience to nurture young talent.
Tributes from the NFL Community
Expressions of grief and admiration have poured in from across the NFL. Ravens head coach John Harbaugh reflected warmly on Jones’ character and spirit. “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,” said Harbaugh.
Steelers coach Mike Tomlin also conveyed his sympathy. “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,” he shared.
Even beyond the NFL, Jones’ impact was noted by Sam Gordon, owner of the Beaumont Renegades. “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,” Gordon said.
Survived by Family
Jones is survived by his son, also named Jacoby, and his mother, Emily. His passing leaves a void in the lives of his loved ones and in the hearts of football fans everywhere who remember his game-changing plays and his larger-than-life personality.
As the football community grieves, Jacoby Jones’ legacy as an extraordinary player and an even more remarkable human being lives on, cementing his place in NFL history and in the memories of those fortunate enough to have known him.