Many people have been shocked by Jacoby Jones’s untimely death, which occurred just days after he accomplished a major milestone.
Since then, his colleagues and admirers have paid their respects to him, with some recalling all the things he excelled at. Before his death, he was awarded one of the highest accolades of his profession.
On July 14, 2024, the world lost a talented football player when Jacoby Jones died quietly at home. The 40-year-old Lane College third-round draft pick passed away unexpectedly and abruptly overnight. His family confirmed the news in a statement.
Jacoby died gently in New Orleans, Louisiana, according to his family. As they work through this trying time, the statement added, “The family, including his mother, Emily, and his son, little Jacoby, are together and are asking for your prayers, privacy, and support.” Condolences have been pouring in, despite the fact that the cause of death was not revealed at the time.
Jacoby’s colleagues were among the first to express their sorrow for him. J.J. Watt, the Texans’ defensive end, shared a picture of the deceased athlete on Instagram. “Jacoby was one of the most enjoyable teammates and individuals I’ve ever encountered,” he remarked.
J.J. claims that the late star was always smiling and would constantly laugh and dance. “Gone far, far too soon” and “R.I.P. Jacoby Jones” were his final remarks.
Torrey Smith also paid tribute to Jacoby on X by displaying several old pictures. He thanked God for their common experiences and the impact Jacoby had on society, referring to the departed athlete as his “brother.”
According to Torrey, the late hero was “1 of 1,” and his field plays and jokes will “live on forever!” Before admitting that his death had impacted him, he also revealed that they would provide for Emily and Jacoby’s son indefinitely. Before closing, Torrey stated, “Jacoby will be missed.” “Love you bro!” was written at the bottom of the caption.
The Baltimore Ravens declared in a statement that they were “utterly devastated” to learn of Jacoby’s death.
The team recalled the athlete for having a “unique ability” to relate to everyone he met. He had a “one-of-a-kind presence” that brightened dark days with his joy, charm, and love.
According to the Ravens, Jacoby’s brilliant football career will go on long after he is gone. However, his enduring relationships with the Ravens, the Baltimore community, and the neighborhoods he called home will also endure.
The staff tried to support his family by sending their sympathies as they started to process the loss. In a separate statement, Ravens head coach John Harbaugh said that he and the other players had “loved” Jacoby.
They admired his strong passion, his spirit, and his affection for others. According to John, he was a light and his mother’s “cherished son,” with whom the “man of faith” had a close relationship. The head coach even remembered one of the late athlete’s favorite football plays.
John remembered that day, just before the late-game kickoff return, Jacoby and his mother were engaged in a snowy gunfight in the end zone. He sprinted, caught the ball, and scored a touchdown!
But seeing the dazzling, beaming star was John’s favorite memory of Jacoby. He prayed for the athlete who had passed away to rest in Jesus’ embrace.
Ray Lewis, a linebacker in the Ravens Hall of Fame, posted an X with several photos of his late teammate. He called Jacoby his brother and added that, like Torrey, he will be missed.
“The memories and the effort you put forth both on and off the football field are irreplaceable.” Ray went on to say, “A @Ravens for life, you always gave back and were a pillar in the community.”
Pat McAfee referred to Jacoby as “an absolute legend” after reposting a GIF of him dancing after scoring a goal. He confirmed that everyone he had seen had loved the athlete who “lit up every room/field.” “We will miss you,” he added, “so rest easy, my brother.”
Robert Griffin III also commended Jacoby by sharing a picture of him having a good time on the field with his Ravens teammates. He offered up prayers for the Super Bowl champion’s friend, family, and loved ones.
Referred to be a “Baltimore Ravens legend,” Robert described the player as a “triple threat” who was athletic, quick-witted, and able to dance. He went on to say that they would miss Jacoby and that he was stolen from them too soon.
In addition to a statement expressing their “deep sadness” at the player’s demise, the Houston Texans shared a black-and-white photo of the departed athlete. The group sent their warmest wishes and sorrow to his family. Jacoby’s followers also shared their grief and condolences on social media.
Jacoby’s admirers posted about him on social media as well. On X, a parent specifically posted pictures of the celebrity chatting and smiling with her two sons. “RIP Jacoby,” the parent wrote. Too soon gone. I saw him engage with the young people and my sons, and he appeared like a wonderful man,” she added.
A sports enthusiast responded to J.J.’s essay with the simple words, “Rest in peace.” Another X user commented, “I’m shocked!” in response to the identical message. All football fans will miss him. “Three days after turning forty?!,” retorted another internet user. Unthinkable!
In 2018, Jacoby took over as wide receivers coach at Lane College. He coached the receivers at Calvert Hall High School in Baltimore and the tight ends at Morgan State before departing. In 2022, he was hired as the receivers coach at Alabama State.
Some people would also recall him for his collaboration with Karina Smirnoff while he was a competitor on “Dancing with the Stars.” According to some of his coworkers, he had a talent for dancing and advanced to the competition finals before placing third.
Jacoby’s rapid rise to fame coincides with his passing. On July 10, a day before his 40th birthday, he was inducted into the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Hall of Fame.
In addition, he has been inducted into the Hall of Fame at his alma mater, the University of Louisiana, and the Marion Abramson, his high school in New Orleans.
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