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Jacoby Jones, former NFL receiver and Super Bowl hero, dies at age 40

Former NFL receiver and Super Bowl hero Jacoby Jones died on Sunday.

He was 40.

The cause of death has not yet been determined.

“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jacoby Jones,” the 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 Jones died on Sunday. AP

Jones, a Louisiana native, played nine seasons in the NFL, primarily with the Texans and Ravens, before spending his final season in the league with the Steelers and Charges.

Jones not only played as a receiver, but was also one of the most dangerous returners in the NFL.

He was one of the stars of Super Bowl 47, catching a 56-yard touchdown pass and completing a thrilling 108-yard kickoff return for a touchdown to help the Ravens to a 34-31 victory over the 49ers.

Jones was named an All-Pro returner and received a Pro Bowl nomination in 2012.

“My brother! I thank God for the memories and your impact on this world,” Torrey Smith, Jones’ teammate on the Ravens, wrote on X. “You were one of one! Your play on the field and your jokes will live on forever! We have Momma Jones as Lil Coby’s Back for life!”

“This hurt me, man! We’re going to miss you! I love you, brother!”

Before the 47th Super Bowl, Jones made a tying 70-yard touchdown catch in the final seconds of regulation in the Ravens’ AFC Divisional Round game against the Broncos in Denver.

Jacoby Jones scores a touchdown after a kickoff during Super Bowl 47 on February 3, 2013. AP

The Ravens won in overtime and Jones’ catch, dubbed the “Mile High Miracle,” was voted the greatest moment in team history at the NFL’s 100th anniversary in 2019.

He played three seasons with the Ravens and holds the franchise record for most career kickoff return touchdowns with four.

“I loved Jacoby Jones,” Ravens head coach John Harbaugh said in a statement. “We all loved him. His spirit, enthusiasm and love for people were impressive. He was a shining light.”

Jacoby Jones was selected in the third round by the Texans in 2007. ASSOCIATED PRESS

Jones played collegiately at Lane College and was selected by the Texans in the third round of the 2007 draft.

“Jacoby was one of the most fun-loving teammates and people I have ever met,” wrote JJ Watt, Jones’ teammate on the Texans, on X. “He was always dancing and laughing and always had a smile on his face.”

“Gone far, far too soon. RIP Jacoby Jones.”

Jones played five seasons for Houston before signing with Baltimore.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Jacoby Jones,” the Texans said in a statement. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.”

In 2017, Jones signed a one-day contract with the Ravens so he could finish his career as a member of the team.

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