BALTIMORE (AP) — Former NFL receiver Jacoby Jones, known for his record-breaking 108-yard kickoff return in the 2013 Super Bowl, has passed away at the age of 40.
The Houston Texans, Jones’ team for the first five seasons of his career, confirmed his death on Sunday. In a statement released by the NFL Players Association, his family announced that he passed away at his home in New Orleans. The cause of death was not disclosed.
Jones played for the Texans, Baltimore Ravens, San Diego Chargers, and Pittsburgh Steelers from 2007-2015, making significant contributions to the Ravens’ Super Bowl victory.
One of his notable moments was during the “Mile High Miracle” in a playoff game against Denver in January 2013 when he caught a 70-yard touchdown pass to tie the score in the closing seconds of regulation. Jones also made a memorable 56-yard TD catch in the Super Bowl against San Francisco before returning a kickoff 108 yards for a touchdown.
Coach John Harbaugh fondly remembered Jones as a joyful player and person, while former teammate J.J. Watt described him as fun-loving and always smiling.
After retiring from the NFL, Jones went on to coach the Beaumont Renegades arena football team in Texas.
The Renegades paid tribute to Jones, emphasizing his impact as a caring and supportive individual beyond his achievements on the football field.
AP Sports Writer Kristie Rieken in Houston contributed to this report.
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