Jacoby Jones, Baltimore Ravens and Houston Texans Wide Receiver, Dead at 40

Jacoby Jones, the former NFL wide receiver and return specialist who was one of the star players during the Baltimore Ravens Super Bowl XLVII win, has died. He was 40. 

According to NBC affiliate KPRC of Houston, Jones — who was also known for his end zone dances — died in his sleep on Saturday, July 13. So far, no other details or cause of death have been released. 

The news of Jones’ death was confirmed via a statement by the Ravens organization. 

“We are completely heartbroken to learn about the passing of Jacoby Jones,” the statement shared across the team’s social media read and website. “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 day.”

The statement continued, “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 out condolences with Jacoby’s family as we all begin to process this devastating news.” 

Jones was remembered and celebrated by Ravens head coach, John Harbaugh, in a statement via the team’s website.

“I loved Jacoby Jones,” he said. “We all did. His spirit, enthusiasm and love for people were powerful. He was a light. He was the cherished son of his loving mom, Ms. Emily. They were so close. He was a man of faith. 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. My favorite Jacoby personal moment was every time I saw his smiling face full of Joy. Rest in peace, Jacoby, in the arms of Jesus.”

The New Orleans native spent nine seasons in the NFL. Jones was the 73rd overall pick during the 2007 NFL draft by the Houston Texans, out of Lane College. After he was released by the Texans in 2012, Jones went on to play for the Baltimore for the Ravens. 

It was there, that he helped them secure their win during Super Bowl XLVII over the San Francisco 49ers. Jones also caught at 70-yard touchdown that tied the Ravens as they played against the Denver Broncos. The play was dubbed the “Mile High Miracle,” and voted the greatest moment in the team’s history. 

Jones was released from the Ravens following the 2014 season. He then went on to play for the San Diego Chargers and Pittsburgh Steelers. However, in 2017, he signed of 1-day contract with the Ravens so he could retire as a member of the Baltimore franchise. 

Off the football field, many viewers of Dancing with the Stars fell in love with Jones for his dance moves. Jones was paired with Karina Smirnoff during season 16 — where they placed third.

On Sunday, DWTS pro Valentin Chmerkovskiy took to Instagram to pay tribute to the late athlete. 

“Rest in peace my friend. Got a text this morning from DC and it broke my heart. Thinking of Jacobys family and his beautiful mother,” the professional dancer wrote alongside a video of Jones in action on the ballroom. “Sending my condolences to Ms Emily and the entire Nola and Houston community for whom he’s done so much. I will always be grateful for our friendship beyond the dancefloor or the football field. Thank you for bringing me into your home, to the cookout, to your charity events, I will miss you. Shining light, always making people laugh around him, always showing love and giving back. #RIPJacoby.”

Jones was survived by his mother. 

For more tributes, scroll below. 

 

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