Former NFL wide receiver and return specialist Jacoby Jones has passed away peacefully at his home in New Orleans on Sunday. The news has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the football community, mourning the loss of a player who brought immense joy and energy both on and off the field.
Jones had just celebrated his 40th birthday days earlier, adding another poignant layer to the heartache felt by his family, friends, and former teammates. The Baltimore Ravens, where Jones left an indelible mark, released a heartfelt statement expressing their “deepest condolences” to his family.
Jones' legacy in the NFL is highlighted by his remarkable contributions to the Baltimore Ravens' 2012 Super Bowl triumph. He recorded the longest kickoff return in Super Bowl and postseason history, a sensational 108-yard dash against the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl XLVII. Additionally, he caught a pivotal 56-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Joe Flacco in the same game, culminating in a staggering 290 total yards—a Super Bowl record.
Reflecting on Jones' impact, Ravens head coach John Harbaugh remarked, “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.”
Jones' contributions weren't limited to a single game or season. In the AFC divisional round during the same Super Bowl-winning year, he scored a crucial 70-yard receiving touchdown against the Denver Broncos, propelling Baltimore to a dramatic 38-35 double-overtime victory. For the Ravens, he holds franchise records for the highest career kickoff return average (30.1 yards) and the highest single-season kickoff return average (30.7 yards in 2012).
Before his exploits with the Ravens, Jones began his NFL journey with the Houston Texans, who drafted him in the third round in 2007. Over his first five seasons in Houston, he set the franchise record for career punt return average at 10.2 yards. Jones’ talents as a return specialist earned him First-Team All-Pro honors and a Pro Bowl appearance with the Ravens.
His career also included brief stints with the Chargers and the Steelers in 2015, before officially retiring as a Raven in 2016. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin expressed his condolences, saying, “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.”
After retiring from professional football, Jones continued to foster his love for the game by serving as the head coach for the Beaumont Renegades football club in Beaumont, Texas. Sam Gordon, owner of the 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.”
Outside of his professional achievements, Jones is survived by his son, also named Jacoby, and his mother, Emily. The loss is deeply felt within the football community, extending beyond his accomplishments on the gridiron. The Baltimore Ravens' statement encapsulates the shared sentiment: “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' vibrant legacy, filled with record-breaking performances and heartfelt connections, will continue to inspire the many lives he touched throughout his remarkable journey. His memory will endure not only in the annals of NFL history but also in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.