Former NFL wide receiver and return specialist Jacoby Jones, well-known for his electrifying plays and charismatic presence, passed away peacefully at his home in New Orleans on Sunday. Just days earlier, the former Baltimore Ravens star had celebrated his 40th birthday.
Jones' athletic prowess was spotlighted during the Baltimore Ravens’ 2012 Super Bowl run, where he played a pivotal role in their triumph. The team paid tribute with a heartfelt statement, expressing their “deepest condolences” to Jones’ family. The NFL Players Union also issued a statement on behalf of the Jones family, marking the widespread impact of his passing.
A Record-Setting Career
Jacoby Jones etched his name in NFL history with spectacular plays that defined his career. During Super Bowl XLVII, Jones recorded a 108-yard kickoff return for a touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers, setting a Super Bowl and postseason record. In that same game, he caught a 56-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Joe Flacco, amassing a staggering 290 total yards, the highest ever recorded in a Super Bowl.
Jones' flair for the dramatic was not limited to the Super Bowl. Earlier in the postseason, he delivered a crucial 70-yard touchdown reception against the Denver Broncos in the AFC divisional round, propelling Baltimore to a 38-35 double-overtime victory. His exceptional performances earned him First-Team All-Pro honors and a Pro Bowl selection during his time with the Ravens.
Enduring Legacy
Beyond his contributions in pivotal games, Jones left an indelible mark on both the Ravens and the Houston Texans, where he began his NFL career. Drafted in the third round in 2007, Jones spent his first five seasons with the Texans, setting the franchise record for career punt return average at 10.2 yards. Upon joining Baltimore in 2012, he set 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).
After an illustrious tenure with the Ravens, Jones had short stints with the Chargers and Steelers in 2015 before officially retiring as a Raven in 2016. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin shared his condolences, 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.”
Life After Football
Post-retirement, Jones dedicated himself to nurturing the next generation of football talent. He served as the head coach for the Beaumont Renegades football club in Beaumont, Texas. Sam Gordon, owner of the Beaumont Renegades, fondly remembered Jones, 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.”
Lasting Memories
Jones is survived by his son, also named Jacoby, and his mother, Emily. Ravens head coach John Harbaugh expressed his deep affection for Jones, 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.”
The Baltimore Ravens organization highlighted his unique personality and the profound connections he fostered. In their statement, they reflected, “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.”
Jacoby Jones' legacy transcends his record-setting performances on the field. He will be forever remembered as a player who brought joy to fans, teammates, and coaches alike, with a personality that resonated far beyond the gridiron.