Former NFL wide receiver and return specialist Jacoby Jones, known for his remarkable contributions to the Baltimore Ravens' 2012 Super Bowl triumph, passed away peacefully at his home in New Orleans on Sunday. He had just celebrated his 40th birthday days earlier.
Jones will be remembered for his electrifying performances on the field, particularly during Super Bowl XLVII where he left an indelible mark. Against the San Francisco 49ers, Jones recorded the longest kickoff return in Super Bowl and postseason history with a 108-yard touchdown. Additionally, he caught a 56-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Joe Flacco, contributing significantly to the Ravens' victory. Jones amassed an astonishing 290 total yards in that game, setting a Super Bowl record.
A Storied NFL Career
Drafted in the third round by the Houston Texans in 2007, Jones spent his first five seasons with the team. He set the Texans’ franchise record for career punt return average with 10.2 yards. However, it was his tenure with the Baltimore Ravens that truly defined his NFL career. Joining the Ravens in 2012, Jones quickly made an impact, earning First-Team All-Pro honors and a Pro Bowl selection as a return specialist.
In the AFC divisional round that same year, Jones played a crucial role against the Denver Broncos, scoring a vital 70-yard receiving touchdown that helped secure a double-overtime win for Baltimore. His remarkable ability to perform in high-stakes moments endeared him to Ravens fans and etched his name into the franchise’s lore.
Jones held 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). His contributions were vital to the team's successes during those years, solidifying his legacy as one of the most dynamic return specialists in NFL history.
After leaving the Ravens, Jones had brief stints with the San Diego Chargers and Pittsburgh Steelers in 2015 before officially retiring as a Raven in 2016. Post-retirement, he transitioned into coaching, serving as the head coach for the Beaumont Renegades football club in Beaumont, Texas. Jones's love for the game extended beyond his playing career, as he sought to impart his knowledge and passion to the next generation of football players.
A Deep Affection from His Peers
The Baltimore Ravens shared their grief in a heartfelt statement, noting, "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.”
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh expressed his personal sorrow, “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.”
Steelers coach Mike Tomlin also shared his thoughts, 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.”
Sam Gordon, owner of the Beaumont Renegades, highlighted Jones's humble nature and his dedication to helping others, 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.”
Jacoby Jones is survived by his son, also named Jacoby, and his mother, Emily. His legacy, left both on and off the field, will be remembered and cherished by many.