Baltimore Ravens and former teammates ‘completely heartbroken’ over death of Jacoby Jones

BALTIMORE – Without the speedy No. 12, the Baltimore Ravens might not have won their recent Super Bowl title.

Jacoby Jones, who died suddenly in his home in New Orleans on Sundaywas a star in the postseason during the 2012 season, which ended with a victory in Super Bowl XLVII.

Shocked former teammates, current and former NFL players and Maryland executives are mourning the news that Jones died just days after his 40th birthday.

My brother, you will be truly missed. They cannot take away the memories and hard work you put in on and off the football field. You always gave back and were always a pillar of the community, a @Ravens for life,” Baltimore Ravens legend Ray Lewis said on X, formerly Twitter. “Love you, JJ.”

Jones, a wide receiver and return specialist, played his first five seasons with the Houston Texans before joining the Ravens from 2012 to 2014.

In 2017, he signed a one-day contract with the Ravens to finish his career as a member of the team. He was honored by the Ravens prior to their AFC Divisional Game against the Houston Texans last January.

Jones was recently hired as head coach of the Beaumont Renegades, an indoor soccer team. He also previously served as football coach at Morgan State in Baltimore.

“Mile-high miracle”

In his first season in Baltimore, during the 2012 season, Jones caught a throw from quarterback Joe Flacco and scored the tying touchdown in the AFC Divisional Playoff game against the Denver Broncos.

The Ravens won 38-35 in the second overtime and finally made it to the Super Bowl.

Star of Super Bowl XLVII

Two games later, Jones caught a 56-yard touchdown pass and returned a 108-yard kickoff for a touchdown as the Ravens defeated the San Francisco 49ers 34-31 in Super Bowl XLVII on February 3, 2013.

In his first season with the Ravens, Jones returned three kickoffs of at least 105 yards as touchdowns.

What do former teammates and the NFL community say?

Jones’ unexpected death sent shockwaves through the NFL community, including the Baltimore Ravens. Former teammates, current players and Maryland executives reacted to the news on social media.

Anquan Boldin, former teammate at the Baltimore Ravens

“Rest in peace brother.”

Ray Lewis, former teammate of the Baltimore Ravens

“My brother, we will truly miss you. They can’t take away the memories and hard work you put in on and off the football field. You always gave back and were always a pillar of the community, a @Ravens for life.”

Torrey Smith, former Ravens teammate

“My brother! I thank God for the memories and your impact on this world. You were one of one! Your play on the field and your jokes will live on forever! We have Momma Jones and Lil Coby behind us forever! This one hurt me, man! We’re going to miss you!”

JJ Watt, former teammate at the Houston Texans

“Jacoby was one of the most fun-loving teammates and people I have ever met. He was always dancing and laughing and always had a smile on his face.”

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott

“Baltimore is deeply saddened by the passing of Jacoby Jones. Jacoby was a beloved member of the @Ravens Family. The whole town sends its condolences to his family.”

Joel Dreessen, former teammate of the Houston Texans

“Jacoby Jones and I were teammates for 5 years in Houston. He was one of my absolute favorites. We always tried to be the first to celebrate with each other when we scored a touchdown. And he always helped me refine my dance moves. The news this morning hurts a lot. I love you, Jacoby!”

Governor of Maryland, Wes Moore

“Jacoby Jones was a leader on and off the field. He was a model of grace under pressure and held our beloved Ravens high. He was dedicated to developing our young people and coached at Calvert Hall HS and Morgan State. We will miss Jacoby greatly and our thoughts are with the Jones family.”

Robert Griffin III, former NFL player

“Prayers 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 far too soon.”

Mike Tomlin, head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers

“My deepest condolences go out to Jacoby Jones’ family during this difficult time. It was my pleasure to coach him during his time with the Steelers.”

Darius Butler, former NFL player

“This news about Jacoby Jones hurts, man! If you ever met him, it’s guaranteed he made your day. If you knew him, you LOVED him. An amazing man who always showed up with incredible energy and a smile!”

Matt Schaub, former Houston Texans teammate

“Jacoby Jones was one of the most energetic and fun-loving teammates. He always had a smile on his face and was never afraid to dance. I’m glad I got to be with you, brother. He’s gone way too soon. Rest in peace, Jacoby.”

Matt Leinart, former Houston Texans teammate

“My former teammate Jacoby Jones has passed away. Damn, this hits me hard. I will always remember his laugh and his simply outstanding personality. Rest in peace, brother.”

Lamar Jackson, quarterback of the Baltimore Ravens

“Well brother, no way, REST IN PEACE, LEGEND.”

Brandon Stephens, cornerback of the Baltimore Ravens

“Rest in peace, Baltimore legend. Prayers and condolences to his family.”

Arian Foster, former Houston Texans teammate

“I don’t think there’s anyone I’ve ever played with that believed in me like he did. I loved that guy like we had the same mother. I told him so every time I saw him. And he did the same. One of the purest people I’ve ever known.”

Zachary Orr, defensive coordinator of the Baltimore Ravens

“Man, it’s sad to hear that from 12. He always brought energy in the locker room and took care of everyone off the field.”

Mark Ingram II, former Baltimore Raven

“That hurt like hell, man!!! Rest in heaven, my God!! Love you, man.”

Baltimore Ravens

“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jacoby Jones,” the Baltimore Ravens said in a statement. “Jacoby had a unique ability to connect with everyone he met. 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 only for his success on the football field, but for the lasting personal connections he made with countless people in the Ravens organization, the Baltimore community and every area he called home. We extend our deepest condolences to Jacoby’s family as we all begin to process this devastating loss.”

John Harbaugh, head coach of the Baltimore Ravens

“I loved Jacoby Jones. We all loved him. His spirit, enthusiasm and love for people were impressive,” Harbaugh said. “He was a shining light. He was the beloved son of his loving mother, Ms. Emily. My favorite play in football was when Jacoby was talking to his mother in the end zone just before a kickoff return against the Vikings in a blizzard shootout. Jacoby then ran to catch the ball and run it back for a touchdown.”