Jacoby Jones, the former Ravens wide receiver who was instrumental in Baltimore’s Super Bowl XLVII win, has sadly passed away at the age of 40.
The Ravens, the Houston Texans, and the NFL all confirmed the news.
The cause of death hasn’t been revealed yet, but the NFLPA shared a statement from his family, saying he “passed away peacefully at his home in New Orleans.”
After the first report from the Baltimore Sun, people have been sharing their tributes for the former NFL star, who also became well-known from Dancing with the Stars.
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“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.”
We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Jacoby Jones. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/Ny4UBLMwdb
— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) July 14, 2024
The Texans expressed their sorrow, saying, “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 coworkers were some of the first to feel the loss. J.J. Watt, the Texans’ defensive end, posted a pic of the late athlete in action on X, saying, “Jacoby was one of the most fun-loving teammates and people I’ve ever been around.”
Jacoby was one of the most fun-loving teammates and people I’ve ever been around. Always dancing and laughing, with a permanent smile on his face.
Gone far, far too soon.
R.I.P Jacoby Jones.
— JJ Watt (@JJWatt) July 14, 2024
Torrey Smith gave a nod to Jacoby by sharing some throwback pics on X. He referred to Jacoby as his “brother” and shared his appreciation for the memories they created together and the influence Jacoby had on the world.
Torrey called Jacoby “1 of 1,” pointing out that his unforgettable plays and jokes will “live on forever!” He also promised that they would look after Emily and Jacoby’s son, sharing just how deeply Jacoby’s passing hit him. Torrey wrapped things up by saying Jacoby will be missed, finishing with, “Love you, bro!”
My brother! I thank God for the memories and your impact on this world. 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! pic.twitter.com/r9MZKU4sqb
— Torrey Smith (@TorreySmithWR) July 14, 2024
Pat McAfee said: “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 shared his thoughts, saying, “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.”
Prayers up for the family, friends and loved ones of Baltimore Ravens Legend and Super Bowl Champion Jacoby Jones who passed away at the age of 40. He was a triple threat. Funny, fast and could dance. He will be missed and was taken from us way too soon. pic.twitter.com/ndBGXhwFCS
— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) July 14, 2024
Back in 2018, Jacoby kicked off his coaching journey as the wide receivers coach at Lane College. After that, he took on the role of coaching tight ends at Morgan State and then moved on to coach receivers at Calvert Hall High School in Baltimore. In 2022, he moved up to take on the role of receivers coach at Alabama State.
Jacoby passed away just three days after hitting the big 4-0.
UPDATE: A month after his passing, the New Orleans coroner’s office has disclosed that the NFL star died from heart disease linked to long-term high blood pressure, according to The Daily Beast. He passed away from natural causes.
May he rest in peace.
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