Former Texans, Ravens WR Jacoby Jones dies at 40

Former NFL player Jacoby Jones dies at 40

Tragedy has struck the NFL as former Houston Texans and Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Jacoby Jones died at 40.

A cause of death has not been released.

Jones was drafted by the Texans in 2007. He played four seasons with Houston. With the Ravens, he was a Pro Bowler in 2012. He was on Baltimore’s roster from 2012-14.

He also played for the San Diego Chargers and Pittsburgh Steelers in his NFL career.

The Ravens released a statement, saying:

“We are completely heartbroken to learn about the passing of Jacoby Jones.

“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.”

Ravens head coach John Harbaugh released a statement, saying:

“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 was the receiver on a huge play in Ravens history, catching a 70-yard TD pass on a third-and-30 against the Denver Broncos with less than a minute left in a 2013 Division Round game that Baltimore went on to win 38-35 in double overtime.

He scored two touchdowns in the Super Bowl win over the 40ers. Jones had a 56-yard touchdown catch in the second quarter and added a 108-yard kickoff return to begin the third versus the 49ers. The latter stands as the longest return in postseason history.

J.J. Watt offered condolences on Twitter.

Ray Lewis weighed in:

The NFL commented: