Former NFL wide receiver and return specialist Jacoby Jones has passed away peacefully at his home in New Orleans on Sunday, just days after celebrating his 40th birthday. Known for his electrifying play and key contributions to the Baltimore Ravens' 2012 Super Bowl triumph, Jones leaves behind a storied legacy in professional football.
A Super Bowl Star
Jacoby Jones' name is forever etched in NFL history, particularly for his awe-inspiring performances during Super Bowl XLVII. In that game, he recorded the longest kickoff return in Super Bowl and postseason history with a 108-yard touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers. He also hauled in a 56-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Joe Flacco, further solidifying his place as a pivotal player in the Ravens’ 34-31 victory. In total, Jones amassed 290 yards in Super Bowl XLVII, setting a Super Bowl record.
Historic Moments
Jones' contributions were not limited to the Super Bowl. In the AFC divisional round against the Denver Broncos that same year, he scored a crucial 70-yard receiving touchdown that helped propel Baltimore to a 38-35 double-overtime victory. His postseason heroics remain some of the defining moments of the Ravens' championship run.
Record-Setting Career
Jacoby Jones holds several records that highlight his exceptional talent as a return specialist. With the Ravens, he boasts the highest career kickoff return average (30.1 yards) and the highest single-season kickoff return average (30.7 yards in 2012). His versatility and skill extended to his time with the Houston Texans, where he set the franchise record for career punt return average (10.2 yards).
Drafted in the third round by the Texans in 2007, Jones spent his first five NFL seasons in Houston before joining the Ravens in 2012. His impact was immediate, earning First-Team All-Pro honors and a Pro Bowl selection as a returner. Following his tenure with the Ravens, Jones had brief stints with the Chargers and Steelers in 2015, before officially retiring as a Raven in 2016.
Post-Retirement and Personal Life
Post-retirement, Jones transitioned from player to coach, serving as the head coach for the Beamont Renegades football club in Beaumont, Texas. Known for his faith and community spirit, Jones made a lasting impact both on and off the field. He is survived by his son, also named Jacoby, and his mother, Emily.
Tributes and Condolences
The Baltimore Ravens released a heartfelt statement, expressing their deepest condolences to Jones’ family. "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," the Ravens' statement read. "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."
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh also shared his thoughts, 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 briefly coached Jones in 2015, added, “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 Beamont Renegades, remembered Jones for his altruism and faith: “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’ passing leaves a significant void in the hearts of many. His contributions to football, his community, and his unwavering spirit will be fondly remembered and sorely missed.