Former NFL receiver and Super Bowl hero Jacoby Jones has died.
He was 40 years old.
A cause of death has not yet been revealed.
“We are completely heartbroken to learn about the passing of Jacoby Jones,” the Ravens said Sunday 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 any dark day.”
Jones, a Louisiana native, played nine seasons in the NFL, mainly with the Texans and Ravens before spending time with the Steelers and Charges in his final season in the league.
Beyond playing as a receiver, Jones was one of the NFL’s most dangerous returners.
He was one of the stars of Super Bowl 47, hauling in a 56-yard touchdown reception and completing a thrilling 108-yard kickoff return for a touchdown to help the Ravens to a 34-31 win over the 49ers.
Jones was named an All-Pro returner and earned a Pro Bowl nod in 2012.
“My brother! I thank God for the memories and your impact on this world,” Torrey Smith, Jones’ teammate on the Ravens, wrote on X. “You were 1 of 1 ! Your play on the field and jokes will live on forever! We have Momma Jones a Lil Coby’s back for life!
“This one hurt me man! We are going to miss you! Love you bro!”
Prior to Super Bowl 47, Jones delivered a 70-yard, game-tying touchdown catch in the final seconds of regulation of the Ravens’ AFC divisional round game against the Broncos in Denver.
The Ravens went on to win in overtime, and Jones’ catch, dubbed the “Mile High Miracle,” was voted the greatest moment in team history at the NFL’s 100th anniversary in 2019.
He played three seasons with the Ravens and holds the franchise record for most career kickoff return touchdowns with four.
“I loved Jacoby Jones,” Ravens head coach John Harbaugh said in a statement. “We all did. His spirit, enthusiasm and love for people were powerful. He was a light.”
Jones played collegiately at Lane College, and the Texans drafted him in the third round of the 2007 draft.
“Jacoby was one of the most fun-loving teammates and people I’ve ever been around,” J.J. Watt, Jones’ teammate with the Texans, wrote on X. “Always dancing and laughing, with a permanent smile on his face.
“Gone far, far too soon. R.I.P Jacoby Jones.”
Jones played five seasons with Houston before signing with Baltimore.
“We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Jacoby Jones,” the Texans said in a statement. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time.”
In 2017, Jones signed a one-day contract with the Ravens so that he could retire as a member of the team.
