The Ravens are mourning the passing of former wide receiver Jacoby Jones.
“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.”
Jones, 40, was a legend of the Ravens’ second Super Bowl championship team. He scored two touchdowns in Baltimore’s 34-31 victory over the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl XLVII, including a 108-yard kickoff return to start the second half.
Jones also caught the “Mile Hile Miracle” pass from Joe Flacco, a 70-yard touchdown reception late in the fourth quarter in Denver that forced the 2012 AFC Divisional playoff game into overtime. The Ravens prevailed, 34-31, in double overtime.
“I am incredibly saddened to learn of Jacoby’s passing,” General Manager Eric DeCosta said in a statement. “He was an important Raven, a passionate character who was talented, humble, kind, and a great teammate and friend. I remember standing next to him at the Super Bowl, hugging him after the game and enjoying the moment with he and his mom. Jacoby will go down in history as a champion and celebrated in Baltimore as a football hero. I will always cherish his smile and infectious personality and the joy that he brought to his city. My condolences to his family.”
In addition to his game-changing ability as a wide receiver and returner, Jones was beloved for his warmth and effervescent personality.
“I loved Jacoby Jones,” Head Coach John Harbaugh said in a statement. “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 spent three seasons with the Ravens (2012-14) and also played for the Houston Texans, San Diego Chargers and Pittsburgh Steelers.
The NFL community and numerous former teammates and expressed condolences on social media.