On July 14, 2024, Jacoby Jones, the former wide receiver and return specialist of the National Football League (NFL), died at his residence in New Orleans, Louisiana. Jones was 40 years old.
Jones’ family issued a statement via the NFL Players Association, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support and requesting privacy during this time of loss. The statement read, “We appreciate all the kind thoughts and support you have given us during this challenging time. Your continued support and respect for our privacy are deeply valued.”
Jones’ tenure with the Baltimore Ravens is particularly remembered, especially his role in the Super Bowl XLVII victory. In that game, he set a Super Bowl record by returning the second-half opening kickoff 108 yards for a touchdown. Additionally, he caught a 56-yard touchdown pass from Joe Flacco, becoming the first player in Super Bowl history to score a receiving touchdown and a kickoff return touchdown in the same game.
Ex-Ravens wide receiver Torrey Smith commemorated Jones on social media, labeling him as “one of a kind” and expressing his grief over the loss. “We are going to miss you,” Smith wrote. “Love you, bro!”
Jones’ NFL career started in 2007 with the Houston Texans, who drafted him in the third round out of Lane College. He played for the Texans for five years before moving to the Ravens in 2012. During his tenure with the Texans, Jones was known for his impactful performances as a return specialist.
Following his time with the Ravens, Jones played briefly for the San Diego Chargers and the Pittsburgh Steelers before retiring in 2017. After his football career, Jones served as a wide receivers coach at his alma mater, Lane College, and held coaching positions at Morgan State University and Alabama State University.
Former NFL quarterback Matt Leinart expressed his sorrow over Jones’ death, stating, “I will always remember his laugh and larger-than-life personality. Rest in peace, brother.”
Jones also gained recognition off the field when he appeared on Season 16 of “Dancing with the Stars,” reaching the final round with his partner Karina Smirnoff and finishing in third place.
J.J. Watt, another former teammate, remembered Jones as “one of the most fun-loving teammates to be around,” emphasizing Jones’s contribution to the team spirit. “He’s gone far too soon,” Watt noted.
Jones’ career highlights included the “Mile High Miracle” in the 2013 AFC Divisional Round. In this game, he caught a 70-yard touchdown pass from Joe Flacco, tying the game against the Denver Broncos and propelling the Ravens to a double-overtime victory.
The Ravens and the broader NFL community have extended their condolences, recalling Jones’s remarkable ability to connect with people. The Ravens stated in a press release, “Jacoby’s charisma, joy, and love made him uniquely capable of lighting up any room and brightening any dark day.”
Jones is survived by his mother, Emily, and his son, known as “Little Jacoby.”