Former NFL wide receiver Jacoby Jones, a Pro Bowler and Super Bowl champion with the Baltimore Ravens, died overnight on Saturday in his Houston-area home, according to multiple reports. Jones, who had just celebrated his 40th birthday on July 11, passed away under circumstances that remain unclear.
The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) released a statement on Sunday afternoon on behalf of the Jones family, confirming that Jones “passed away peacefully at his home in New Orleans, Louisiana.” Jones was born and raised in New Orleans before attending Lane College in Tennessee.
The NFLPA expressed deep sadness over the loss of the late receiver, mentioning that Jones’ family, including his mother and son, are together during this time. Sam Gordon, the owner of the Beaumont Renegades—an indoor football league team that had hired Jones as its inaugural head coach in April—also confirmed the former receiver’s death. Gordon described Jones as “the most humble and kind person to anybody” during a phone interview with KPRC 2 Houston on Sunday morning.
Jones enjoyed a nine-season career in the NFL, starting with the Houston Texans, where he played for five years before signing with the Ravens in 2012. He had a standout season in his first year with Baltimore, earning First Team All-Pro honors and a Pro Bowl selection during the Ravens’ championship-winning 2012 season.
One of Jones’ most memorable moments came during the Ravens’ Super Bowl XLVII run, when he caught the “Mile High Miracle,” a 70-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Joe Flacco in the final minute of the AFC divisional game against the Denver Broncos. This crucial play forced the game into double overtime, eventually leading to a Ravens victory and advancing them to the AFC Championship. Jones continued to shine in the Super Bowl, scoring two touchdowns, including a 108-yard kick return, which contributed to Baltimore’s 34-31 win over the San Francisco 49ers.
In tribute to Jones, the Ravens posted a heartfelt statement on Sunday, saying, “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.” Ravens head coach John Harbaugh, who coached Jones during his three years in Baltimore, added, “His spirit, enthusiasm, and love for people were powerful. He was a light.”
The Houston Texans also extended their thoughts and prayers to Jones’ family. Several of Jones’ former teammates, including Texans legend JJ Watt, former Ravens teammates Ray Lewis, Anquan Boldin, and Torrey Smith, as well as quarterback Matt Leinart, who played with Jones in Houston, paid tribute to him on social media. Maryland Governor Wes Moore and others also expressed their condolences.
Jones stayed with the Ravens for three seasons before concluding his career with brief stints at the San Diego Chargers and Pittsburgh Steelers. In September 2017, Jones signed a one-day contract with Baltimore to officially retire as a Raven, cementing his legacy with the team.
Jones’ passing leaves a void in the hearts of many, but his legacy of humility, kindness, and remarkable achievements on the football field will be remembered by fans and players alike.
A statement on behalf of the Jones family ➡️
— NFLPA (@NFLPA) July 14, 2024
His light, energy & presence will be so missed. We’re thinking of Jacoby’s family and Little Jacoby at this time. @NFLPAFmrPlayers pic.twitter.com/ydPgJPN0Ye
"I loved Jacoby Jones. We all did. His spirit, enthusiasm and love for people were powerful. He was a light." pic.twitter.com/lpMLRp3EDx
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) July 14, 2024