Former NFL WR Jacoby Jones Dies at 40

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Jacoby Jones, a former Ravens wide receiver and star of Super Bowl 47, has died, the team announced Sunday morning.

He was 40. The cause of death has not been released.

“We are devastated to learn of Jacoby Jones’ passing,” the Ravens said in a statement. “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 up a dark day.

“Jacoby will be long remembered not only for his success on the football field, but also for the lasting personal connections he made with countless people throughout the Ravens organization, the Baltimore community and every area he called home.”

Jones, a Louisiana native, played only three seasons for the Ravens, from 2012 to 2014, but left an indelible mark on the franchise with his performance in the Super Bowl against the San Francisco 49ers. He had a touchdown catch of 56 yards and a Super Bowl record 108-yard kickoff return for a score to open the second half, helping Baltimore secure a 34-31 victory over the San Francisco 49ers.

He also had a 70-yard game-tying touchdown catch in the final seconds of regulation in the Ravens’ AFC divisional round playoff game that season against the Denver Broncos, the so-called “Mile High Miracle,” which Baltimore won in double overtime. It was voted the greatest moment in team history for the NFL’s 100th anniversary celebration in 2019.

“I loved Jacoby Jones. We all did,” Ravens coach John Harbaugh said in a statement. “His spirit, enthusiasm and love for people were powerful. He was a light. He was the cherished son of his loving mother, Mrs. Emily. They were so close. He was a man of faith.

“My favorite football play was when Jacoby was talking to his mom in the end zone just before a late kickoff return against the Vikings in a blizzard shootout. Jacoby ran to catch the ball and ran it back for a touchdown. My favorite personal moment with Jacoby was every time I saw his smiling face filled with joy. Rest in peace, Jacoby, in the arms of Jesus.”

Former Ravens star Jacoby Jones remembered by teammates: ‘You were one of a kind!’

Jones, who played at Lane College and was selected in the third round of the 2007 draft by the Houston Texans, played nine seasons in the NFL and after his time in Baltimore also played for the Pittsburgh Steelers and the then-San Diego Chargers.

In September 2017, Jones signed a one-day contract with the Ravens, allowing him to retire as a member of the franchise.

Jones holds the Ravens record for most career kickoff return touchdowns (four), most kickoff return touchdowns in a single season (two) and the longest kickoff return in team history. He has also returned two for 108 yards against the Dallas Cowboys and Pittsburgh Steelers.

An All-Pro returner and Pro Bowl selection in 2012, he finished his career with 203 catches, 2,733 yards and 125 touchdowns. He also had 4,940 yards and five touchdowns as a kick returner and 2,688 yards and four scores as a punt returner.

This article is being updated.

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