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, having celebrated his birthday just days earlier. Jones will long be remembered for his extraordinary contributions to the game of football, particularly during his tenure with the Baltimore Ravens.
A Key Player in Ravens' Super Bowl Triumph
Jones was a pivotal figure in the Baltimore Ravens' 2012 Super Bowl victory. His remarkable performance in Super Bowl XLVII against the San Francisco 49ers is etched in NFL history. Jones set a Super Bowl and postseason record with a 108-yard kickoff return for a touchdown. He also hauled in a memorable 56-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Joe Flacco in that same game, amassing an astonishing 290 total yards—another Super Bowl record.
In a thrilling AFC divisional round earlier that year, Jones played a crucial role once again. He caught a 70-yard receiving touchdown against the Denver Broncos, a play that greatly contributed to Baltimore's intense 38-35 double-overtime victory. These extraordinary feats solidified Jones' legacy as one of the standout performers of his era.
Remembering a Record-setting Career
Jones was initially drafted by the Houston Texans in the third round of the 2007 NFL Draft. During his first five seasons with the Texans, he established himself as a dynamic return specialist, holding the franchise record for career punt return average (10.2 yards).
In 2012, Jones joined the Ravens, where his career truly flourished. He quickly became a fan favorite and earned the prestigious honor of being named a First-Team All-Pro returner, along with a Pro Bowl selection. Jones set 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). "I loved Jacoby Jones, we all did. His spirit, enthusiasm, and love for people were powerful," said Ravens head coach John Harbaugh. "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."
After his time with the Ravens, Jones had brief stints with the Chargers and 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."
Life After Football
Following his retirement from the NFL, Jones transitioned into coaching. He took on the role of head coach for the Beaumont Renegades football club in Beaumont, Texas. Sam Gordon, owner of the Beaumont 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."
Jones' impact extended far beyond the football field. The Baltimore Ravens released a heartfelt statement expressing their sorrow over his passing: "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 life and career have left an indelible mark on the sport of football and the communities he touched. As the NFL world mourns his loss, his legacy as a player of exceptional talent and a person of genuine kindness will endure.