Former NFL wide receiver and return specialist Jacoby Jones passed away peacefully at his home in New Orleans on Sunday. Jones, who just turned 40 days earlier, leaves behind a legacy cemented in football history, particularly through his pivotal role in the Baltimore Ravens' 2012 Super Bowl triumph.
A Career to Remember
Jones, born in New Orleans, was drafted in the third round by the Houston Texans in 2007. He spent his first five NFL seasons in Houston, where he set the franchise record for career punt return average with 10.2 yards.
However, it was with the Baltimore Ravens, whom he joined in 2012, that Jones’ career truly soared. His extraordinary performance in Super Bowl XLVII remains unparalleled. Jones recorded the longest kickoff return in Super Bowl and postseason history with a remarkable 108-yard touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers. Additionally, he hauled in a 56-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Joe Flacco in the same game. His contributions didn't stop there; Jones amassed a staggering 290 total yards in the Super Bowl, setting a new record for the big game.
Jones' heroics extended beyond the Super Bowl. In the AFC divisional round of the 2012 season, he scored a crucial 70-yard receiving touchdown against the Denver Broncos, paving the way for a double-overtime victory. Over his tenure with the Ravens, Jones set the 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). These achievements earned him First-Team All-Pro honors and a Pro Bowl selection, underscoring his status as one of the league's leading return specialists.
Heartfelt Tributes
The Baltimore Ravens released a heartfelt statement, expressing their "deepest condolences" to Jones' family. The statement read, “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 also shared his personal memories of Jones. “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.”
A Multifaceted Legacy
Jones didn't only make his mark on the Ravens. After leaving Baltimore, he had brief stints with the Chargers and Steelers in 2015. 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.” Jones' professional football career officially concluded in 2016 when he retired as a Raven.
Following his NFL career, Jones transitioned to coaching. He served as the head coach for the Beaumont Renegades football club in Beaumont, Texas. This role highlighted Jones' dedication to nurturing the next generation of football talent and giving back to the community. Sam Gordon, owner of the Beaumont Renegades, reflected on Jones' impactful presence: “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.”
A Personal Loss
Jones is survived by his son, also named Jacoby, and his mother, Emily. His passing leaves a profound void not only in the world of football but also among those who knew him personally. The NFL Players Union has issued a statement on behalf of the Jones family, offering support during their time of grief.
Jacoby Jones will forever be remembered as a dynamic playmaker whose contributions to football were as impactful as his interpersonal connections. His legacy, marked by exceptional records and heartfelt relationships, ensures that his memory will endure for generations to come.