Former NFL wide receiver and return specialist Jacoby Jones passed away peacefully at his home in New Orleans on Sunday, just days after celebrating his 40th birthday. Jones is best remembered for his pivotal role in the Baltimore Ravens' 2012 Super Bowl triumph. The Ravens organization expressed their deepest condolences to the Jones family, mourning the loss of a player who left an indelible mark on the franchise.
A Legacy in Baltimore
Jacoby Jones' career with the Ravens began in 2012, a season that saw him rise to stardom. His most memorable moment came in Super Bowl XLVII against the San Francisco 49ers, where he set the record for the longest kickoff return in Super Bowl and postseason history with a 108-yard touchdown. Jones also caught a 56-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Joe Flacco in the same game. His staggering total of 290 yards in Super Bowl XLVII remains a Super Bowl record, underscoring his impact on the Ravens' victory.
“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,” said Ravens head coach John Harbaugh.
From Houston to Baltimore
Jones was drafted in the third round by the Houston Texans in 2007, where he spent his first five NFL seasons. He set the Texans' franchise record for career punt return average with 10.2 yards. Yet, it was his move to Baltimore in 2012 that truly underscored his capabilities. With the Ravens, Jones became a First-Team All-Pro returner and earned Pro Bowl honors. His contributions 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, propelling the Ravens to a 38-35 victory in double-overtime.
Jones’ legacy is marked by his records with the Ravens, including the highest career kickoff return average (30.1 yards) and the highest single-season kickoff return average (30.7 yards in 2012). These achievements solidified his reputation as one of the game's most formidable return specialists.
Brief Stints and Retirement
After leaving the Ravens, Jones had short stints with the Chargers and Steelers in 2015. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin remarked, “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.” Despite these brief periods with other teams, Jones ultimately returned to Baltimore to officially retire in 2016 as a Raven, the team with which he crafted his most memorable moments.
Life After Football
Post-retirement, Jones transitioned into coaching, serving as the head coach for the Beamont Renegades football club in Beaumont, Texas. His impact off the field was as notable as his accomplishments on it. “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,” said Sam Gordon, owner of the Beamont Renegades.
Farewell
Jacoby Jones is survived by his son, also named Jacoby, and his mother, Emily. The Baltimore Ravens encapsulated the sentiments of many in their official statement: “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.”