Former NFL wide receiver and renowned return specialist Jacoby Jones passed away peacefully at his home in New Orleans on Sunday, just days after celebrating his 40th birthday. Jones, known for his electrifying performances on the field, is remembered for his pivotal contributions to the Baltimore Ravens' unforgettable 2012 Super Bowl triumph.
A Legacy of Record-Breaking Performances
Jones carved his name into NFL history with his record-setting feats. In Super Bowl XLVII, he recorded the longest kickoff return in both Super Bowl and postseason history, a stunning 108-yard touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers. Jones wasn't done making history that night; he also hauled in a 56-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Joe Flacco and amassed an astounding 290 total yards, setting a Super Bowl record.
His heroics were not confined to the Super Bowl alone. In the AFC divisional round of the same year, Jones caught a crucial 70-yard touchdown pass against the Denver Broncos, a play that was instrumental in the Ravens' dramatic 38-35 double-overtime victory. His performance under pressure exemplified his ability to shine in the most critical moments.
A Celebrated Career
Drafted by the Houston Texans in the third round of the 2007 NFL Draft, Jones spent his first five seasons with the team, setting a franchise record for career punt return average (10.2 yards). In 2012, Jones joined the Baltimore Ravens, where he quickly became a fan favorite and earned First-Team All-Pro honors along with a Pro Bowl selection. He would go on to become a key player in their special teams unit, holding franchise records for the highest career kickoff return average (30.1 yards) and the highest single-season kickoff return average (30.7 yards, both achieved in 2012).
After his tenure with the Ravens, Jones had brief stints with the Chargers and the Steelers in 2015 before officially retiring as a Raven in 2016, cementing his legacy with the team where he found his greatest success.
Post-retirement, Jones transitioned into coaching, where he served as the head coach for the Beamont Renegades football club in Beaumont, Texas, sharing his wealth of knowledge and experience with the next generation of players.
Tributes from the Football Community
The Baltimore Ravens released a heartfelt statement, expressing their "deepest condolences" to Jones' family. In their tribute, the Ravens highlighted Jones' unique ability to connect with everyone he met, noting that his "charisma, joy, and love created a one-of-a-kind presence that could light up any room or brighten any dark day."
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh shared his personal memories of Jones, saying, “I loved Jacoby Jones, we all did. His spirit, enthusiasm, and love for people were powerful. He was a light." Harbaugh fondly remembered seeing Jones' "smiling face full of joy" and praised Jones' relationship with his mother, Emily, calling them "so close."
Steelers coach Mike Tomlin also extended his condolences, stating, “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.”
Sam Gordon, owner of the Beamont Renegades, reflected on Jones' character, emphasizing, “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.”
A Life Remembered
Jones’ influence extended far beyond the gridiron. Known for his humility and generosity, he was deeply committed to his faith and the well-being of others. His legacy as a player is matched by the profound personal connections he made and the lives he touched, both within the football community and beyond.
Jones is survived by his son, also named Jacoby, and his mother, Emily. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of many, but his legacy of excellence, both as an athlete and a person, will endure.