Chargers News: Former WR Dies Unexpectedly At Age 40

He died in his sleep on July 14.

Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Former Chargers wide receiver and Super Bowl champion Jacoby Jones has died at age 40. The cause of death has not been shared, but the Jones family confirmed that he died 'peacefully' in his sleep, per a statement from the NFL Player's Association.

A statement on behalf of the Jones family ➡️

His light, energy & presence will be so missed. We’re thinking of Jacoby’s family and Little Jacoby at this time. @NFLPAFmrPlayers pic.twitter.com/ydPgJPN0Ye

— NFLPA (@NFLPA) July 14, 2024

A former third-round pick, Jones spent eight years in the NFL. He played for the Houston Texans, Baltimore Ravens, Chargers, and Pittsburgh Steelers.

Chargers general manager Joe Hortiz, who worked for the Ravens when they signed Jones, said the following after his death: “It’s difficult to find words when you’re heartbroken," Hortiz said. "Jacoby had such a wonderful spirit. His enthusiasm not just for the game, but for life, was infectious. His smile, energy and passion made things so much fun for everyone fortunate enough to know him. Our hearts are with Jacoby’s family and everyone who loved him - which is without question too many people to even count. While there are few certainties in the world, I am certain we were all better for having Jacoby in our lives.” 

“I am certain we were all better for having Jacoby in our lives.” pic.twitter.com/v9aFazx2uE

— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) July 14, 2024

During his playing career, Jones was most known for his stellar performance during the 2012 playoffs with the Ravens. In the Divisional Round against the Denver Broncos, the Ravens were trailing by seven points with just 40 seconds left when Jones caught a 70-yard pass from Joe Flacco to tie the game. The Ravens would go on to win the game in double overtime.

Jacoby Jones after the Ravens’ Mile High Miracle, likely the greatest play in franchise history:

“I told myself that Joe might throw me the ball, so I better haul butt off the line.”pic.twitter.com/Vy17KUfDyf

— Jonas Shaffer (@jonas_shaffer) July 14, 2024

In Super Bowl three weeks later, Jones helped the Baltimore Ravens earn a win over the San Francisco 49ers with a dominant game. He caught a 56-yard touchdown pass and also returned a kickoff 108 yards for a touchdown. That kickoff remains the record-holder for the longest play in Super Bowl history.

RIP Jacoby Jones

Never Forget His Super Bowl Performance In His Hometown Of New Orleans

290 Total Yards
1 REC
56 YDS
2 TD
108 Yard Kickoff Return

pic.twitter.com/TMKQ6WX5x7

— Boot Krewe Media (@BootKreweMedia) July 14, 2024

Jones was known by teammates and coaches as fun, a hard worker, and a light in the world. After his playing career, Jones worked as a high school and college assistant football coach. He was recently hired as the head coach and offensive coordinator of the Beaumont Renegades, an indoor football team that is set to begin play next year.

I’ll never forget this Jacoby Jones moment #RavensFlock pic.twitter.com/OcvGsDYh89

— Nic Mason (@British_Raven19) July 14, 2024

We all remember the Mile High Miracle and Super Bowl XLVII but one of my favorite Jacoby Jones moments was when he hit the squirrel on Dancing With The Stars pic.twitter.com/IHeIykyYSJ

— Ryan (@ryguyblake) July 14, 2024