Jacoby Jones, Former NFL Star and Super Bowl Hero, Dies at 40
Jacoby Jones, the electrifying wide receiver and kick returner best known for his pivotal role in the Baltimore Ravens’ Super Bowl XLVII victory, has died at the age of 40. The Ravens, Houston Texans, and the NFL confirmed his passing on Sunday through heartfelt statements, expressing their profound sorrow and celebrating his indelible impact both on and off the field.
Jones, who scored two memorable touchdowns in the Ravens’ 2013 Super Bowl win over the San Francisco 49ers, passed away peacefully at his home in New Orleans, according to a statement from the NFL Players Association on behalf of his family. The cause of death has not been disclosed.
“We are completely heartbroken to learn about the passing of Jacoby Jones,” the Ravens organization said. “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.”
Jones was a standout player throughout his nine-year NFL career, which included stints with the Houston Texans, Baltimore Ravens, Pittsburgh Steelers, and the then-San Diego Chargers. Selected by the Texans in the third round of the 2007 NFL Draft from Division II Lane College, Jones quickly made his mark with his speed and playmaking ability.
During his time with the Texans, Jones recorded 127 catches for 1,741 yards and 11 touchdowns, and scored four times on kick and punt returns. However, his legacy was cemented in Baltimore, where he signed a two-year, $7 million deal in 2012 and delivered some of the most iconic moments in Ravens history.
In the AFC Divisional Round against the Denver Broncos, Jones caught a miraculous 70-yard touchdown pass from Joe Flacco with 31 seconds left in regulation, a play famously known as the “Mile High Miracle.” The Ravens went on to win the game in double overtime, propelling them to an AFC Championship victory and ultimately to Super Bowl XLVII.
In the Super Bowl, Jones continued to shine, catching a 56-yard touchdown pass and returning a kickoff 108 yards for a touchdown, the longest play in Super Bowl history. His performance earned him a place in the hearts of Ravens fans and solidified his reputation as a clutch performer.
“We don’t win Super Bowl XLVII without Jacoby,” former Ravens general manager Ozzie Newsome said at the time of Jones’ release in 2015. “Jacoby was an outstanding Raven and a good teammate on and off the field.”
Jones’ impact extended beyond the football field. Known for his infectious personality and joyous spirit, he connected deeply with his teammates, coaches, and fans. His former teammate, Ray Lewis, expressed his sorrow on social media, writing, “My brother, you will truly be missed. They can’t take the memories and the hard work you put in on and off the football field. You always gave back and always a pillar in the community, a Raven for life. Love ya JJ.”
After retiring from the NFL, Jones remained active in the football community, serving as a wide receivers coach at Lane College, Calvert Hall, Morgan State, and Alabama State. Most recently, he was the head coach and offensive coordinator for the Beaumont Renegades, a professional indoor football team in Texas.
“Jacoby was a special football player,” the Renegades said in a statement. “He loved every minute of every game, and he knew that every day was a blessing. But what can be said about Jacoby the football player only scratches the surface of who he was as a man. When you needed someone, he was there. When you called, he answered. When you texted, he responded.”
Jones leaves behind a legacy of remarkable athletic achievements and profound personal connections. His loss is felt deeply across the NFL and beyond. The Baltimore Ravens, the city of Baltimore, and the entire football community mourn the passing of a beloved player and friend.
“Our heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies go out to his family as they work through this sudden and tragic loss,” the Renegades’ statement concluded. “Jacoby’s impact on the world and the game of football will never be forgotten.”