Jacoby Jones, a former wide receiver and return specialist for the Baltimore Ravens, has died, the National Football League said Sunday. He was 40 years old.
“The NFL is heartbroken to hear of the passing of Super Bowl champion Jacoby Jones,” the league wrote in a statement on July 14. “Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones.”
The cause of death was not disclosed.
Jones began his NFL career in 2007, when he was drafted by the Houston Texans. He went on to play for the Baltimore Ravens from 2012 to 2014, and later he briefly played for the San Diego Chargers and the Pittsburgh Steelers.
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Jones was an integral part of the Ravens’ roster, when the team won the Super Bowl XLVII championship against the San Francisco 49ers in 2013. He was the first player in history to score a receiving touchdown and a return touchdown in the same game, according to NFL.com.
“We are completely heartbroken to learn about the passing of Jacoby Jones,” the Ravens said in a statement Sunday.
The statement continued, “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 retired from the league in 2017.
He also competed on Season 16 of ABC’s Dancing With the Stars, where he came in third place with dance pro Karina Smirnoff.
Longtime DWTS pro Cheryl Burke paid tribute to Jacoby over the weekend on Instagram.
“Absolutely devastated by the loss of my dear friend and fellow #dwts co-star, Jacoby Jones, who passed away in his sleep early this morning,” she wrote. “While we weren’t dance partners, I had the honor of sharing unforgettable moments with him, from being part of his trio dance to supporting his cherished foundation. My heart aches for Jacoby and his family. My prayers are with you all. Rest in peace, Jacoby. You will be deeply missed.”
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