The sports world mourns the loss of former NFL wide receiver and Super Bowl champion, Jacoby Jones, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 40. The cause of his death remains undisclosed. The Baltimore Ravens, one of Jones’ former teams, expressed their grief in a statement, highlighting Jones’ unique ability to connect with people and his infectious charisma that could brighten any room.
Born in Louisiana, Jones had a nine-year career in the NFL, primarily with the Houston Texans and the Baltimore Ravens. He also had brief stints with the Pittsburgh Steelers and the San Diego Chargers in his final season. Apart from his role as a receiver, Jones was renowned for his skills as a returner, making him one of the most formidable players in the league.
Jones’ prowess on the field was on full display during Super Bowl 47, where he made a significant contribution to the Ravens’ 34-31 victory over the San Francisco 49ers. He caught a 56-yard touchdown pass and completed a 108-yard kickoff return for another touchdown, earning him a place in Super Bowl history.
In addition to his Super Bowl heroics, Jones was named an All-Pro returner and earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2012. His former Ravens teammate, Torrey Smith, paid tribute to Jones on social media, expressing gratitude for the memories they shared and promising to support Jones’ family.
Jones also made a significant impact in the Ravens’ AFC divisional round game against the Denver Broncos prior to Super Bowl 47. His 70-yard, game-tying touchdown catch in the final seconds of regulation, known as the “Mile High Miracle,” was voted the greatest moment in team history at the NFL’s 100th anniversary in 2019.
Jones, who played three seasons with the Ravens, holds the franchise record for most career kickoff return touchdowns with four. Ravens head coach John Harbaugh expressed his admiration for Jones in a statement, praising his spirit, enthusiasm, and love for people.
Before his NFL career, Jones played college football at Lane College. He was drafted by the Texans in the third round of the 2007 draft. J.J. Watt, Jones’ former teammate with the Texans, remembered him as one of the most fun-loving people he had ever met.
Jones spent five seasons with the Texans before signing with the Ravens. The Texans also released a statement expressing their sadness over Jones’ passing. In 2017, Jones signed a one-day contract with the Ravens, allowing him to retire as a member of the team that he helped lead to Super Bowl victory.