Former NFL wide receiver and return specialist Jacoby Jones passed away peacefully at his home in New Orleans on Sunday. Jones, who had recently celebrated his 40th birthday, left an indelible mark on the NFL and will be remembered for his stellar achievements and infectious personality.
A Legacy on the Field
Jacoby Jones is best known for his critical contributions to the Baltimore Ravens' triumph in Super Bowl XLVII. In that iconic game against the San Francisco 49ers, Jones showcased his incredible athleticism, setting a Super Bowl and postseason record with a 108-yard kickoff return for a touchdown. He did not stop there, also catching a 56-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Joe Flacco. Jones amassed 290 total yards in the Super Bowl, setting a record that underscored his pivotal role in Baltimore's victory.
Jones' contributions extended beyond the Super Bowl. In the AFC divisional round that same year, he caught a crucial 70-yard touchdown pass against the Denver Broncos, helping the Ravens secure a dramatic 38-35 win in double-overtime. His ability to deliver in critical moments earned him a special place in the hearts of Baltimore fans.
Tributes and Achievements
The Baltimore Ravens released a heartfelt statement expressing their 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," the statement read. "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."
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh also shared his sentiments, stating, "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’ NFL journey began when he was drafted in the third round by the Houston Texans in 2007. He spent his first five seasons in Houston, where he set the franchise record for career punt return average with 10.2 yards. In 2012, Jones joined the Baltimore Ravens, where he quickly became a First-Team All-Pro returner and earned Pro Bowl honors. He continued to dominate in the kickoff return game, holding 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).
After his successful stint with the Ravens, Jones had brief tenures with the San Diego Chargers and Pittsburgh Steelers in 2015 before officially retiring as a Raven in 2016. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin recalled his time coaching Jones, 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."
Beyond the Gridiron
Jones’ impact extended off the football field as well. After retiring from the NFL, he served as the head coach for the Beaumont Renegades football club in Beaumont, Texas. Sam Gordon, owner of the Renegades, remembered Jones as not just a player and coach, but as a man of character. "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 shared.
Jones is survived by his son, also named Jacoby, and his mother, Emily. The NFL Players Union has issued a statement on behalf of Jones' family, reflecting the widespread grief felt across the football community.
Jacoby Jones will be remembered not just for his athletic accomplishments but for the joy, humility, and kindness he brought to everyone he met. His legacy will continue to inspire and impact the lives of those who had the privilege of knowing him and witnessing his remarkable career.