While Jacoby Jones’ official cause of death has yet to be revealed, the 40-year-old Super Bowl champion ‘passed away peacefully,’ the NFLPA has revealed in a statement released on behalf of his family.
‘In a statement, the Jones family confirmed that Jacoby Jones passed away peacefully at his home in New Orleans, Louisiana,’ read the NFLPA statement. ‘The family, including his mother, Emily and his son, Little Jacoby, are together and are asking for your prayers, privacy, and support as they navigate through this difficult time.’
Jones, whose 108-yard kickoff return in 2013 remains the longest touchdown in Super Bowl history, played for the Houston Texans, Baltimore Ravens, San Diego Chargers, and Pittsburgh Steelers between 2007 and 2015. He is best remembered for his contributions to the Ravens en route to Baltimore’s Super Bowl XLVII victory over the San Francisco 49ers.
Jones’ family also thanked the public for the outpouring of condolences they’ve received.
‘We want to express our gratitude for all the kind thoughts and support you have shown us during this challenging time,’ read the family statement. ‘Your ongoing support and respecting our privacy means a lot to us.’
Tributes have poured in for the former wide receiver, who went on wider fame in Dancing with the Stars.
Taking to X, JJ Watt wrote: ‘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.’
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.’
Torrey Smith, who won the Super Bowl with Jones in 2013, said: ‘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 [and] Lil Coby’s back for life! This one hurt me man! We are going to miss you! Love you bro!’
It has been reported that Jones died overnight at his home in New Orleans, just three days after his 40th birthday. He is survived by one teenage son, named Coby.
News of his death was confirmed shortly before midday, when the NFL tweeted: ‘The NFL is heartbroken to hear of the passing of Super Bowl champion Jacoby Jones. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones.’
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.’
Jones grew up in New Orleans – his house was destroyed by Hurricane Katrina – and he was drafted by the Houston Texans in 2007.
He went on to play five seasons in Houston, before moving on to Baltimore, where he won the Super Bowl in his first season.
The most memorable play of his career came against the San Francisco 49ers, when he scored a Super Bowl-record 108-yard kick return for a touchdown.
