On Sunday, the world of football mourned the loss of former NFL wide receiver and return specialist Jacoby Jones, who passed away peacefully at his home in New Orleans. Jones had recently celebrated his 40th birthday.
A Legacy on the Gridiron
Jacoby Jones is most remembered for his remarkable contributions to the Baltimore Ravens, especially during their 2012 Super Bowl-winning season. Jones etched his name into NFL history with a memorable and record-setting performance in Super Bowl XLVII against the San Francisco 49ers. His 108-yard kickoff return for a touchdown remains the longest in both Super Bowl and postseason history. Additionally, Jones caught a 56-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Joe Flacco in the same game, leading the Ravens to a triumphant victory. He amassed an astonishing 290 total yards in that Super Bowl, setting a new benchmark for the most yards in a single Super Bowl.
A Pivotal Player
Jones's heroics were not confined to the Super Bowl. In the AFC divisional round of the same season, he scored a crucial 70-yard receiving touchdown against the Denver Broncos, propelling the Ravens to a dramatic 38-35 win in double-overtime. His performance was instrumental in securing Baltimore’s journey to the championship.
The Ravens organization expressed their profound sadness in a heartfelt 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.”
A Career of Highlights
Drafted in the third round of the 2007 NFL Draft by the Houston Texans, Jones spent his first five seasons with the franchise. During his tenure, he set the Texans' franchise record for career punt return average at 10.2 yards. In 2012, he joined the Baltimore Ravens, where he not only became a First-Team All-Pro returner but also earned Pro Bowl honors.
Jones 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). His exceptional skills as a return specialist made him a formidable component of the Ravens' special teams.
After his tenure with the Ravens, Jones had short 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.”
Life After Football
Following his retirement from professional football, Jones continued to make an impact off the field. He served as the head coach for the Beaumont Renegades football club in Beaumont, Texas. Sam Gordon, the owner of the Renegades, shared his admiration: “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.”
Remembering a Beloved Figure
Jones is survived by his son, also named Jacoby, and his mother, Emily. Ravens head coach John Harbaugh fondly remembered 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.”
Throughout his career and life, Jacoby Jones’s presence was felt by many on and off the field. His legacy as a player and person will continue to inspire those who knew him and those who cheered for him. The football world bids farewell to a true legend, but his remarkable achievements and warm spirit will never be forgotten.