Jacoby Jones, a former Ravens wide receiver who played a key role in Baltimore’s Super Bowl XLVII victory, has passed away at the age of 40, his family announced Sunday.
The news was confirmed by the Ravens, the Houston Texans, and the NFL.
The cause of death has not been disclosed, but the NFLPA released a statement from his family, indicating he “passed away peacefully at his home in New Orleans.”
Following the initial report by the Baltimore Sun, tributes have been shared for the former NFL star, who gained additional fame on Dancing with the Stars.
“We are completely heartbroken to learn about the passing of Jacoby Jones,” the Ravens said 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. 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 our deepest condolences with Jacoby’s family as we all begin to process this devastating loss.”
The statement by the Texans read, “We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Jacoby Jones. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time.”
Jacoby’s colleagues were among the first to mourn him. J.J. Watt, the Texans’ defensive end, shared a picture of the late athlete in action on X, writing, “Jacoby was one of the most fun-loving teammates and people I’ve ever been around.”
Torrey Smith paid homage to Jacoby with a series of throwback pictures on X. He called Jacoby his “brother” and expressed gratitude for their shared memories and Jacoby’s impact on the world.
Torrey described Jacoby as “1 of 1,” noting that his memorable plays and jokes will “live on forever!” He also assured that they would care for Emily and Jacoby’s son, admitting how much Jacoby’s passing affected him. Torrey concluded by saying Jacoby will be missed, ending with “Love you, bro!”
Pat McAfee added: “Jacoby Jones was an absolute legend. He was beloved by literally everybody he met and lit up every room he walked into.”
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh also released a statement, which read: “I loved Jacoby Jones. 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.”
In 2018, Jacoby began his coaching career as the wide receivers coach at Lane College. He later coached the tight ends at Morgan State and the receivers at Calvert Hall High School in Baltimore. In 2022, he advanced to become the receivers coach at Alabama State.
Jacoby died just three days after his 40th birthday.
May he rest in peace.