Former Ravens’ WR Jones Dies at 40

For the second time in a week, the NFL fraternity has suffered an unthinkable tragedy.

Nine-year NFL veteran Jacoby Jones, a former wide receiver and kick returner, most notably with the Baltimore Ravens, Houston Texans and a pair of other teams, has died, the Ravens announced Sunday morning. He was 40 years old.

“We are completely heartbroken to learn about the passing of Jacoby Jones,” the team said in a statement posted on social media. “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.”

No details were yet available about the cause of his death. The Baltimore Sun initially reported the news Sunday morning.

Ravens coach John Harbaugh remembered and paid tribute to Jones in a statement posted to his social media platform.

“I loved Jacoby Jones. We all did. His spirit, enthusiasm and love for people were powerful. He was a light,” Harbaugh said. “My favorite Jacoby personal moment was every time I saw his smiling face full of joy.”

Born and raised in the ‘Big Easy’, New Orleans, Jones was selected by the Houston Texans in the third round of the 2007 NFL draft after playing college football at Lane College. He was a member of the Texans from 2007 to 2011 before moving to Baltimore for the 2012-2014 seasons.

While with the Ravens, Jones was best known for his record 108-yard kickoff return in Super Bowl XLVII against Jim Harbaugh and the San Francisco 49ers. It was the first time brothers had the opportunity to coach against each other in the big game. Jones also caught a 56-yard bomb from quarterback Joe Flacco in the Ravens’ 34-31 victory.

“When I ran in the end zone, it was quiet. You heard rat piss on cotton,” Jones told ESPN on the 10-year anniversary of the catch. “I’m like, this ain’t real.”

Earlier in the postseason, Jones helped keep the Ravens Super Bowl aspirations alive with a 70-yard touchdown reception from Flacco with 31 seconds remaining on the clock to force overtime in a divisional playoff matchup against the Denver Broncos. The Ravens went on to win by a field goal, 38-35, in double overtime in a game that was later branded the “Mile High Miracle.”

Many of Jones’ former teammates posted touching tributes to his memory on social media.

“Jacoby was one of the most fun-loving teammates and people I’ve ever been around. Always dancing and laughing, with a permanent smile on his face. Gone far, far too soon,” said JJ Watt, who played with Jones on the Texans.

Former Ravens teammate Torrey Smith also posted his heart felt and raw condolences on social media.

“I thank God for the memories and your impact on this world. You were 1 of 1! Your play on the field and jokes will live on forever!” Smith wrote.

Also, Hall of Fame linebacker Ray Lewis paid his respects.

“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,” Lewis said in a post on social media.

Jones was also known for his moves in the ballroom, but this time around, there was no champaign bath or trophy ceremony.

Attempting to become the fourth NFL player to win “Dancing With The Stars,” the Ravens wide receiver and his partner, Karina Smirnoff, finished in third place on the finale of ABC’s televised dance competition in May 2013.

Although he failed to join the ranks of prior NFL winners Emmitt Smith, Hines Ward and Donald Driver, Jones remained upbeat and positive after the show, tweeting: “I want to thank all the fans who voted and all the supporters. Luv yal. It was a great experience.”

In April of this year, Jones was hired as the head coach and offensive coordinator of the Beaumont Renegades, an indoor football expansion franchise set to begin play in 2025.

“He was the best, he loved everyone,” Sam Gordon, the owner of the Renegades, told KPRC-TV in Houston. “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.”