Former NFL receiver Jacoby Jones, known for his record-setting 108-yard kickoff return in the 2013 Super Bowl, has passed away at the age of 40. The cause of Jones’ death was not immediately known, but the Houston Texans, where he played for the first five seasons of his career, acknowledged his passing on Sunday.
From 2007 to 2015, Jones was a member of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Baltimore Ravens, Houston Texans, and San Diego Chargers. He was particularly notable for his contributions to the Ravens during their Super Bowl-winning season.
One of Jones’ most memorable moments came during the Ravens’ “Mile High Miracle” playoff game against Denver in January 2013. With 31 seconds left in the fourth quarter, Jones caught a 70-yard touchdown pass, tying the game and leading to a double-overtime victory for Baltimore.
In the Super Bowl that followed, against the San Francisco 49ers, Jones made significant plays, including a 56-yard touchdown reception from MVP Joe Flacco and a 108-yard kickoff return to start the second half, giving Baltimore a 28-6 lead. The Ravens eventually won the game 34-31. This Super Bowl was especially meaningful as it was held in New Orleans, Jones’ hometown.
Ravens coach John Harbaugh recalled a favorite memory: “My favorite football play was when Jacoby was talking to his mom in the end zone before a late-game kickoff return against the Vikings in a snowstorm shootout. After then, Jacoby ran to grab the ball and return it for a score. My favorite personal moment was every time I saw his smiling face full of joy.”
Jones was named to The Associated Press All-Pro team as a kick returner for the 2012 season and later appeared on “Dancing With The Stars.”
Former Texans star J.J. Watt paid tribute to Jones, saying, “Jacoby was one of the most fun-loving teammates and people I’ve ever been around. He never stopped smiling and dancing, and his smile never went away. Gone far, far too soon.”