NFL: Ravens Super Bowl hero Jacoby Jones dies aged 40
Speedster holds NFL record after 108-yard kick return in Super Bowl win over 49ers
Jacoby Jones, a former wide receiver with the Baltimore Ravens, passed away at the age of 40.
Throughout his eight seasons in the NFL, Jones was renowned for his explosive playmaking skills. In 2013, he was instrumental in the Ravens’ victory over the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl XLVII.
After recovering a kick deep in his own end zone, the speedster had the longest play in Super Bowl history and the longest kickoff return for a touchdown in play-off history, measuring 108 yards.
In addition, Jones made Super Bowl history by being the first player to score a touchdown on a kick return and catch a touchdown in the same game, all of which took place at the Superdome in his native New Orleans, Louisiana.
Because of Jones’ heroics in the away game against the Denver Broncos during the AFC Divisional Round, the Ravens were able to advance to the championship game.
When Jones received a bomb from quarterback Joe Flacco for a 70-yard touchdown with 31 seconds left in the fourth quarter, his team was down 35-28 and faced a third-and-30. This forced overtime, which the Ravens won.
The “Mile High Miracle” is the name given to the play.
He “passed away peacefully at his home in New Orleans,” according to a statement issued by the NFL Players Association on behalf of his family.
The Ravens released a statement saying, “We are completely heartbroken to learn about the passing of Jacoby Jones.” “Jacoby possessed a special ability to relate to everyone he came into contact with.
“His charisma, joy, and love created a unique presence that could lift the spirits of anyone, anywhere, anytime.”
The Houston Texans selected Jones in the third round of the 2007 NFL Draft, and he played for them until 2011, when he signed a free agent contract to play with the Baltimore Ravens.
He spent stints with the San Diego Chargers and Pittsburgh Steelers following his three seasons in Baltimore, where he was chosen for the Pro Bowl in 2012. He concluded his career in 2017 with 203 receptions for 2,733 yards and 14 touchdowns in 128 games.
In 2017, Jones agreed to a one-day contract to resign from the Ravens. After his retirement, he served as Alabama State’s receivers coach.
On social media, his former Texans teammate JJ Watt said, “Jacoby was one of the most fun-loving team-mates and people I’ve ever been around.”
“Always grinning and dancing, and wearing a constant smile. Too soon, and too far gone. Farewell, Jacoby Jones.