Many people are shocked by the news of Jacoby Jones’ unexpected demise days after he celebrated a big milestone. His colleagues and fans have since sent tributes to him, with some recalling all the things he was good at. Before he passed, he got one of the highest honors of his career.
On July 14, 2024, the world lost a talented football player when Jacoby Jones died at home while sleeping. The Lane College third-round draft pick was 40 when he passed away overnight. His family confirmed the news in a statement.
Jacoby’s family said he died peacefully in New Orleans, Louisiana. “The family, including his mother, Emily, and his son, little Jacoby, are together and are asking for your prayers, privacy and support as they navigate through this difficult time,” the statement read. No cause of death was revealed at the time, but tributes have been pouring in.
Jacoby’s colleagues were among the first to mourn him. J.J. Watt, the Texans’ football defensive end, took to X to share a picture of the late athlete in action. He recalled, “Jacoby was one of the most fun-loving teammates and people I’ve ever been around.”
J.J. said the late star was always laughing and dancing, and his smile was permanently on his face. “Gone far, far too soon,” he added before signing off with “R.I.P Jacoby Jones.”
Jacoby was one of the most fun-loving teammates and people I’ve ever been around. Always dancing and laughing, with a permanent smile on his face.
Gone far, far too soon.
R.I.P Jacoby Jones.
— JJ Watt (@JJWatt) July 14, 2024
Torrey Smith also honored Jacoby with several throwback pictures on X. He called the late athlete his “brother,” thanking God for the memories they made and the impact Jacoby had on the world.
Torrey described the late star as “1 of 1,” noting how his field plays and jokes will “live on forever!” He also shared that they would be looking after Emily and Jacoby’s son forever before confessing that his death hurt him. Torrey concluded by saying Jacoby will be missed. “Love you bro!” read the end of his caption.
My brother! I thank God for the memories and your impact on this world. You were 1 of 1 ! Your play on the field and jokes will live on forever! We have Momma Jones a Lil Coby’s back for life! This one hurt me man! We are going to miss you!
Love you bro! pic.twitter.com/r9MZKU4sqb
— Torrey Smith (@TorreySmithWR) July 14, 2024
The Baltimore Ravens also released a statement saying they were “completely heartbroken” upon learning about Jacoby’s death.
The team recalled how the athlete had the “unique ability” to connect with all those he came across. His joy, charisma, and love created a “one-of-a-kind presence” that lit up rooms and brightened dark days.
The Ravens said long after he’s gone, Jacoby will be remembered for his successful career on the football field. But his lasting connections made in the Baltimore community, in the Ravens, and in the places he called home will also live on.
The team offered support to his family by sharing their condolences with them as they all started processing the loss. The Ravens’ head coach, John Harbaugh, also gave a statement noting how he and all the others had “loved” Jacoby.
They loved his powerful enthusiasm, spirit, and the love he had for people. John described him as a light and the “cherished son” of his mother, whom the “man of faith” was very close to. The head coach even recalled one of his favorite football plays by the late athlete.
John remembered that on that day, just before the late-game kickoff return, Jacoby was in the end zone talking to his mother in a snowstorm shootout. He managed to run, catch the ball, and score a touchdown!
But John’s personal favorite moment of Jacoby was every time he saw the star smiling and happy. He hoped the late athlete would rest in peace in Jesus’ arms.
Ray Lewis, the Ravens Hall of Fame linebacker, also accompanied his X post with several photos of his late colleague. Just like Torrey, he called Jacoby his brother and revealed that he would be missed.
“They can’t take the memories and the hard work you put in on and off the football field. You always gave back and always a pillar in the community, a @Ravens for life,” Ray further expressed.
Sharing a GIF of Jacoby scoring a goal and celebrating with a dance, Pat McAfee described him as “an absolute legend.” He confirmed that everyone he met had loved the athlete who “lit up every room/field.” “Rest easy my brother..we will miss your presence,” he added.
Jacoby Jones was an absolute legend.. he was beloved by literally everybody he met and lit up every room/field he walked into/onto.
Rest easy my brother.. we will miss your presence. pic.twitter.com/mq878eSH7Y
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) July 14, 2024