His Family and Teammates Share Their Thoughts

Former Baltimore Ravens wide receiver and Super Bowl XLVII winner Jacoby Jones passed away peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, July 14, 2024. The football star had just celebrated his 40th birthday on July 11, 2024, and his passing has left a significant mark on his family and friends. To commemorate his remarkable life and enduring legacy, here are some key aspects of Jones’ journey, including his football career, appearance on “Dancing With the Stars,” and his contributions beyond the field.

The announcement of Jones’ death was shared by The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) on X (formerly Twitter), stating: “We are deeply saddened to share that Jacoby Jones, a beloved former Ravens football player from New Orleans and a proud graduate of a historically black college has passed away at the age of 40.” The Jones family, in their own statement, confirmed that he died peacefully at his home in New Orleans, Louisiana. They expressed their deep gratitude for everyone’s prayers, privacy, and support during this challenging period.

Throughout his National Football League (NFL) career, Jones played for four different teams: the Houston Texans, San Diego Chargers, Pittsburgh Steelers, and the Baltimore Ravens. It was with the Ravens that he rose to national recognition, especially during the 2013 Super Bowl. In that iconic game, Jones returned a kickoff 108 yards for a touchdown, setting a record for the longest play in Super Bowl history at the time.

In response to his passing, the Baltimore Ravens released a heartfelt statement expressing their sorrow. They highlighted his unique ability to connect with everyone he met, his charisma, and the joy he brought into every room. The team fondly remembered him not just for his on-field successes, but for his personal connections throughout the Baltimore community and beyond. They extended their condolences to his family and friends, acknowledging the void his death leaves behind.

After his Super Bowl triumph, Jones traded the football field for the dance floor by joining the 16th season of “Dancing With the Stars.” Partnered with Karina Smirnoff, Jones showcased his dancing talents and finished in third place. Cheryl Burke, who participated in a trio dance with him on the show, paid tribute to him on Instagram. She recalled the unforgettable moments they shared and expressed how devastated she was by his passing. She extended her thoughts and prayers to his family, emphasizing how deeply he will be missed.

Jones’ NFL career concluded in 2017, but his passion for football continued to thrive. He returned to his alma mater, Lane College, as a coach and later moved to Morgan State University. In 2022, he joined the Alabama State University staff. At the time of his passing, he was serving as the offensive coordinator and head coach for the Beaumont Renegades, an indoor football expansion team scheduled to commence play in 2025.

The Beaumont Renegades expressed their sorrow through a statement, highlighting how much Jones meant to them. They described him as a special football player who loved every moment of the game and considered every day a blessing. However, they emphasized that his contributions as a person far surpassed his accomplishments on the field.

Jacoby Jones’ passing is a profound loss to his family, friends, and the broader football community. His legacy as an exceptional football player and a remarkable human being will continue to inspire and be remembered by all who knew him.

May Jacoby Jones rest in peace, and may his football legacy continue to shine brighter than ever before.

Source: Getty, IMDB