Former NFL star Jacoby Jones, renowned for his key contributions both as a wide receiver and a return specialist, passed away peacefully at his home in New Orleans on Sunday. He had celebrated his 40th birthday just days prior. Jones, praised for his infectious spirit both on and off the field, leaves behind a legacy punctuated by extraordinary moments in NFL history.
A Super Bowl Legend
Jones’ illustrious NFL career is best remembered for his remarkable performance during the Baltimore Ravens' victorious 2012 Super Bowl run. Jones etched his name in the annals of football history during Super Bowl XLVII against the San Francisco 49ers with a record-breaking 108-yard kickoff return for a touchdown—the longest in Super Bowl and postseason history. In the same game, Jones also caught a stunning 56-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Joe Flacco, contributing significantly to Baltimore's triumph.
Setting a Super Bowl record with an astounding 290 total yards, Jones’ explosive plays were crucial in securing the Ravens’ victory. His prowess extended beyond the Super Bowl; in the AFC divisional round that year, he scored a crucial 70-yard receiving touchdown against the Denver Broncos, propelling Baltimore to a 38-35 victory in double-overtime.
A Legacy with the Ravens and Texans
Jones' contributions to the Ravens weren’t limited to his Super Bowl heroics. He holds the franchise 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 dynamic play earned him First-Team All-Pro honors and a spot in the Pro Bowl during his tenure with the team.
Before his stint with the Ravens, Jones was drafted in the third round by the Houston Texans in 2007, where he spent his first five NFL seasons. With the Texans, he set the franchise record for career punt return average (10.2 yards), showcasing his dual-threat capability as both a receiver and a return man.
Heartfelt Tributes
The news of Jones’ passing prompted an outpouring of heartfelt tributes from across the NFL. The Baltimore Ravens issued a statement expressing their deep condolences to his family and lauding his unique ability to connect with everyone he encountered. “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 Ravens' 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.”
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh also shared his fond memories of Jones, emphasizing the player's spirited and joyful nature. “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,” Harbaugh said.
Jones' former coach with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Mike Tomlin, also expressed his sympathy. “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,” he stated. Jones had brief stints with the Chargers and Steelers in 2015 before officially retiring as a Raven in 2016.
Life After Football
Following his retirement from professional football, Jones continued to contribute to the game as the head coach for the Beaumont Renegades football club in Beaumont, Texas. He focused on mentoring young athletes and sharing his passion and knowledge of the sport.
Sam Gordon, owner of the Beaumont Renegades, highlighted Jones' dedication to helping 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,” Gordon said.
Jones is survived by his son, also named Jacoby, and his mother, Emily. His legacy as a football player, coach, and beloved community member will be remembered by many.