Former NFL wide receiver and return specialist Jacoby Jones, revered for his extraordinary contributions to the sport, passed away peacefully at his home in New Orleans on Sunday. Jones had just celebrated his 40th birthday days earlier.
Jones's legacy was firmly cemented by his pivotal performances during the Baltimore Ravens' 2012 Super Bowl triumph. His most unforgettable moment came in Super Bowl XLVII, where he recorded the longest kickoff return in Super Bowl and postseason history with a stunning 108-yard touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers. This spectacular play was only part of his overall brilliant performance in the game, which also included a 56-yard touchdown reception from quarterback Joe Flacco. Jones amassed an astonishing 290 total yards in the Super Bowl, setting a record that highlights his remarkable impact on the game.
Career Highlights
Jones's heroics were not limited to the Super Bowl. In the AFC divisional round that same year, he scored a crucial 70-yard receiving touchdown against the Denver Broncos to help Baltimore secure a 38-35 double-overtime victory. These remarkable feats were instrumental in propelling the Ravens to their championship victory.
Over his career with the Ravens, Jones set several franchise records, including the highest career kickoff return average (30.1 yards) and the highest single-season kickoff return average (30.7 yards in 2012). His talents extended beyond Baltimore; he holds the Houston Texans’ franchise record for career punt return average (10.2 yards).
Jones was drafted by the Houston Texans in the third round of the 2007 NFL Draft and spent the first five years of his career in Houston. In 2012, he joined the Ravens, where he reached new heights, becoming a First-Team All-Pro returner and earning Pro Bowl honors. After leaving the Ravens, he had brief stints with the Chargers and Steelers in 2015 before officially retiring as a Raven in 2016.
Post-Retirement and Legacy
After his NFL career, Jones dedicated himself to coaching, serving as the head coach of the Beaumont Renegades football club in Beaumont, Texas. He leaves behind a son, also named Jacoby, and his mother, Emily.
The Baltimore Ravens issued a heartfelt statement mourning Jones's passing. "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."
Tributes from the Football Community
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh also shared his grief and admiration for 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."
Steelers coach Mike Tomlin expressed his condolences as well, 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."
Sam Gordon, owner of the Beaumont Renegades, reflected on Jones’s character and impact: "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's life and career were marked by extraordinary achievements on the field and deep personal connections off it. His passing is a significant loss to the football community, which will remember him not only for his athletic prowess but also for his vibrant personality and kindness. Rest in peace, Jacoby Jones.