Former NFL wide receiver and return specialist Jacoby Jones passed away peacefully at his home in New Orleans on Sunday. Jones, who had celebrated his 40th birthday just days earlier, leaves behind a legacy of remarkable achievements on the football field and a lasting impact off it.
Jones is best remembered for his pivotal role in the Baltimore Ravens’ 2012 Super Bowl triumph. His performance in Super Bowl XLVII against the San Francisco 49ers remains one of the most memorable in NFL history. With a 108-yard kickoff return and a 56-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Joe Flacco, Jones set the stage for a Ravens victory that is still celebrated by fans.
In that same Super Bowl, Jones recorded an astonishing 290 total yards, setting a record for the most yards gained in a single Super Bowl game. His crucial 70-yard receiving touchdown in the AFC divisional round against the Denver Broncos earlier that season helped the Ravens secure a 38-35 win in double overtime, further cementing his status as a key player in their championship run.
The Baltimore Ravens released a heartfelt statement expressing their "deepest condolences" to Jones’ family. "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," the 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."
A Remarkable Career
Jones began his NFL journey when he was drafted in the third round by the Houston Texans in 2007. He spent his first five seasons in Houston, setting a franchise record for career punt return average at 10.2 yards. In 2012, Jones joined the Baltimore Ravens, where he thrived as a top return specialist.
With the Ravens, Jones earned First-Team All-Pro honors and was selected for the Pro Bowl. He also holds 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). After his successful stint with the Ravens, Jones had brief tenures with the Chargers and Steelers in 2015 before retiring as a Raven in 2016.
A Legacy Beyond the Field
Post-retirement, Jones continued to influence the game of football as the head coach for the Beaumont Renegades football club in Beaumont, Texas. He is survived by his son, also named Jacoby, and his mother, Emily, who shared a close bond with him.
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh shared his fond 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."
Steelers coach Mike Tomlin also 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 Beamont Renegades, highlighted Jones's character and commitment to 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."
Jacoby Jones’s passing is a significant loss to the football community. His record-breaking plays and infectious spirit have left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him or watched him play. Jones's legacy will continue to inspire future generations, not only through his achievements on the field but also through the kindness and humility he exemplified throughout his life.