Former NFL wide receiver and return specialist Jacoby Jones passed away peacefully at his home in New Orleans on Sunday. The news comes just days after Jones celebrated his 40th birthday, and it has left a deep void in the hearts of his family, friends, and football community.
A Key Figure in Baltimore's Super Bowl Triumph
Jacoby Jones is best remembered for his pivotal role in the Baltimore Ravens' 2012 Super Bowl victory. His remarkable 108-yard kickoff return for a touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl XLVII remains the longest kickoff return in both Super Bowl and postseason history. That memorable game saw Jones amass a staggering 290 total yards, setting a Super Bowl record. Additionally, he hauled in a 56-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Joe Flacco, underscoring his versatility and game-changing abilities.
Jones also made significant contributions in the AFC divisional round that same year. His crucial 70-yard receiving touchdown against the Denver Broncos helped propel Baltimore to a thrilling 38-35 double-overtime victory, paving the way for their championship success.
Record-Setting Career
Jacoby Jones's career was marked by his exceptional talent and record-setting performances. During his time with the Ravens, Jones 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). His impact extended beyond Baltimore as well; Jones holds the Houston Texans' franchise record for career punt return average at 10.2 yards.
Jones's journey to NFL stardom began when he was drafted in the third round by the Houston Texans in 2007. He spent his first five NFL seasons in Houston before joining the Baltimore Ravens in 2012. His explosive play on special teams earned him First-Team All-Pro honors and a Pro Bowl selection during his tenure with the Ravens. After his stint in Baltimore, Jones had brief periods with the Chargers and Steelers before retiring as a Raven in 2016.
Heartfelt Tributes
The news of Jacoby Jones's passing prompted an outpouring of heartfelt tributes from around the NFL community. Ravens head coach John Harbaugh shared his touching memories of 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.”
Steelers coach Mike Tomlin, who had the opportunity to coach Jones, expressed his condolences: “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, where Jones served as head coach post-retirement, reflected on Jones's character and his dedication to helping others: “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.”
The Baltimore Ravens also released a poignant statement: “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.”
A Lasting Legacy
Jacoby Jones leaves behind a legacy of excellence on the football field and a life dedicated to faith, family, and helping others. Post-retirement, Jones dedicated his time to coaching and mentoring young athletes as the head coach for the Beaumont Renegades in Beaumont, Texas. His influence extended beyond his impressive career stats, as he touched the lives of many with his humility, kindness, and unwavering faith.
Jacoby Jones is survived by his son, also named Jacoby, and his mother, Emily. The football world mourns the loss of a remarkable player and an even more remarkable man.