Former NFL wide receiver and return specialist Jacoby Jones, celebrated for his electrifying performances on the field, passed away peacefully at his home in New Orleans on Sunday. Jones, who had just turned 40 days earlier, left behind a legacy remembered by fans and teammates alike.
A Hero of Super Bowl XLVII
Jones carved his name into NFL history with his unforgettable role in the Baltimore Ravens’ 2012 Super Bowl victory. His 108-yard kickoff return against the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl XLVII remains the longest in both Super Bowl and postseason history. That same game saw him haul in a crucial 56-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Joe Flacco. In total, Jones amassed an astounding 290 yards, setting a Super Bowl record that solidified his place as a Ravens legend.
Reflecting on Jones’ impact, Ravens head coach John Harbaugh shared his admiration, stating, “I loved Jacoby Jones, we all did. His spirit, enthusiasm, and love for people were powerful. He was a light.”
Early Career and Achievements
Drafted in the third round by the Houston Texans in 2007, Jones spent his first five NFL seasons in Houston, setting a franchise record for punt return average at 10.2 yards. It wasn’t until he joined the Ravens in 2012 that his career truly took off, earning First-Team All-Pro returner honors and a Pro Bowl selection.
Jones continued to shine during the Ravens' 2012 season, delivering a pivotal 70-yard receiving touchdown in the AFC divisional round against the Denver Broncos, propelling Baltimore to a 38-35 double-overtime victory. His contributions in the return game also set 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).
Post-Ravens Career and Legacy
After leaving the Ravens, Jones had brief stints with the Chargers and Steelers in 2015 before officially retiring as a Raven in 2016. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin expressed his condolences, 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.”
Following his NFL career, Jones remained involved in football, serving as head coach for the Beaumont Renegades football club in Beaumont, Texas. The Renegades' owner, Sam Gordon, remembered him fondly, “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.”
An Enduring Impact
Jones’ passing has left the football community in mourning. The Baltimore Ravens issued a heartfelt statement expressing their “deepest condolences” to Jones' family, highlighting his unique ability to connect with everyone he met. “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. “We share our deepest condolences with Jacoby’s family as we all begin to process this devastating loss.”
Jacoby Jones is survived by his son, also named Jacoby, and his mother, Emily. His legacy on the field is immortalized in the records he set and the memorable moments he created. More importantly, Jones is remembered as a joyful, faith-driven individual who touched the lives of many. Harbaugh captured the sentiment of many who knew him, saying, “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.”
The football world has lost a remarkable player and person, but Jacoby Jones’ impact will undeniably endure, both through his record-setting performances and the profound connections he made throughout his life.