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BALTIMORE — Jacoby Jones, a former wide receiver and kick return specialist who played a key role in the Baltimore Ravens’ Super Bowl victory, has died, according to confirmation from the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday. He was 40 years old.
The Jones family announced that he passed away at his home in New Orleans. Jones had recently celebrated his birthday on July 11.
“We want to express our gratitude for all the kind thoughts and support you have shown us during this challenging time,” the family stated through the NFL Players Association. “Your ongoing support and respecting our privacy means a lot to us.”
In April, Jones had been named head coach of the Beaumont Renegades, an indoor football team. He also had a previous coaching stint at Morgan State in Baltimore.
“We are saddened to bring you the news that Head Coach Jacoby Jones has passed away,” the Beaumont Renegades said in a statement. “He meant so much to us, and we know how loved he was by all of you. Jacoby was a special football player. He loved every minute of every game and knew every day was a blessing. But what can be said about him as a football player is only scratching the surface of who he was as a man.”
Throughout his nine NFL seasons with Houston, Baltimore, San Diego, and Pittsburgh, Jones accumulated 203 catches for 2,733 yards and 14 touchdowns. He also had 127 punt returns for four touchdowns and 183 kickoff returns for five touchdowns.
In 2017, Jones signed a one-day contract with the Ravens to retire as a member of the team. He was honored by the Ravens before their AFC Divisional Game against the Houston Texans last January.
“Mile High Miracle”
Jones, who played for the Baltimore Ravens from 2012 to 2014, had an unforgettable debut season in Baltimore. He was named a Pro Bowl and All-Pro returner in 2012. During the AFC Divisional Round of the playoffs against the Denver Broncos, Jones caught a 70-yard touchdown pass with 31 seconds remaining to tie the game at 35-35, leading to a Ravens victory in the second overtime with a field goal by Justin Tucker.
Super Bowl Sensation
Jones became the first player to score both a receiving touchdown and a kickoff return touchdown in a Super Bowl. He was a key player in the Baltimore Ravens’ Super Bowl XLVII win over San Francisco, with a final score of 34-31 on February 13, 2013. Jones caught a 56-yard touchdown pass from Joe Flacco and opened the third quarter with a 108-yard kickoff return, setting a record for the longest play in Super Bowl or postseason history.
“Devastating Loss”
The Baltimore Ravens expressed their condolences in a statement, highlighting Jones’ significant impact on and off the field during his three seasons with the team.
“We are completely heartbroken to learn about the passing of Jacoby Jones,” the Ravens 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.”
“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.”
“I Loved Jacoby Jones”
Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh shared fond memories of Jones, including a special moment with Jones’ mother during a game against the Minnesota Vikings.
“I loved Jacoby Jones. We all did. His spirit, enthusiasm, and love for people were powerful,” Harbaugh said. “He was a light. He was the cherished son of his loving mom, Ms. Emily. My favorite football play was when Jacoby was talking to his mom in the end zone, just before a late-game kickoff return against the Vikings in a snowstorm shootout. Jacoby then raced to catch the ball and run it back for a touchdown.”