Introduction
Former NFL standout Jacoby Jones left a lasting legacy both on and off the field. From his big-play prowess to his Super Bowl heroics, Jones earned his place in the football history books. His untimely death at age 40 shocked fans and teammates alike. This article explores how Jacoby Jones died, his age at passing, the cause of death, and the jersey numbers he wore during his career.
Early Life and Football Beginnings
Jacoby Rashi’d Jones was born on July 11, 1984, in New Orleans, Louisiana.
He attended Marion Abramson High School and went on to play college football at Lane College (an HBCU in Tennessee) from 2003–2006.
His college production earned him a chance at the 2007 NFL Draft.
NFL Career Highlights
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He was selected in the third round of the 2007 NFL Draft by the Houston Texans.
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He played for several teams: Texans, Baltimore Ravens, San Diego Chargers, and Pittsburgh Steelers.
Iconic Moments
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In the 2012 playoffs with the Ravens, Jones secured a 70-yard touchdown pass from Joe Flacco with 31 seconds remaining to tie the game vs the Denver Broncos — the famous “Mile High Miracle.”
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In Super Bowl XLVII, Jones scored a 56-yard receiving touchdown and a 108-yard kickoff‐return touchdown — the first player in Super Bowl history with both in the same game.
Jersey Numbers Worn
During his NFL tenure, Jones wore multiple numbers depending on the team and position. Notably:
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#12
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#13
These numbers reflect his wide receiver/return specialist role.
Age at Passing
Jacoby Jones passed away on July 14, 2024, just three days after his 40th birthday.
Thus, his age at death: 40 years old.
Cause of Death: What Happened?
Official Findings
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The coroner’s office in Orleans Parish (Louisiana) ruled his death as being due to hypertensive cardiovascular disease (i.e., complications from long-term high blood pressure).
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The manner of death was classified as natural causes.
What is Hypertensive Cardiovascular Disease?
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It’s a condition where persistently high blood pressure damages the heart and blood vessels over time.
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Known as the “silent killer”, because many live with high blood pressure without symptoms until major damage occurs.
Context & Implications
Athletes, especially those who transition out of high-intensity professional careers, can face health risks if lifestyle factors (weight, diet, medical monitoring) change dramatically. One article noted:
“Athletes can be particularly susceptible … when their lifestyle changes after retiring.”
This suggests that monitoring cardiovascular health remains important even for elite former athletes.
Legacy & Impact
Jacoby Jones wasn’t just remembered for his big plays—he left an imprint via his personality, community engagement, and infectious joy.
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His former team, the Ravens, described him as someone whose “charisma, joy and love created a one-of-a-kind presence.”
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Many tributes poured in after his death, underscoring his role as both teammate and friend.
His Super Bowl performance, especially, ensures his name will be remembered in NFL lore. Jacoby Jones cause of death.
Why His Death Matters in a Bigger Picture
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It highlights the reality that cardiovascular disease is a serious threat—even for athletes.
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It serves as a reminder for retired professionals to continue health monitoring and preventative care.
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It reinforces the importance of recognizing high blood pressure as not just a “regular person” issue but one that spans age, profession, and lifestyle.
FAQ Section
Q1: What caused Jacoby Jones’s death?
A1: The official cause was hypertensive cardiovascular disease — damage to the heart and vessels from long-term high blood pressure.
Q2: How old was Jacoby Jones when he died?
A2: He was 40 years old, passing away on July 14, 2024.
Q3: Which jersey numbers did Jacoby Jones wear in his NFL career?
A3: He wore numbers 12 and 13 during various stints of his career.
Q4: Was Jacoby Jones’s death considered an accident or something else?
A4: His death was ruled natural causes.
Q5: What are major achievements of Jacoby Jones?
A5:
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Pro Bowl selection (2012)
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All-Pro return specialist (2012)
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Instrumental in the Ravens’ Super Bowl XLVII victory — including scoring a receiving-touchdown and a kickoff-return touchdown in that game.
Conclusion
Jacoby Jones’s story is one of on-field triumphs and off-field reminder of the fragility of health. He elevated his teams and moments — from the “Mile High Miracle” to Super Bowl glory. His passing at only 40, from hypertensive cardiovascular disease, underscores the critical nature of cardiovascular health vigilance for everyone, including elite athletes and former pros. His legacy, including the jerseys he donned (#12, #13) and the joy he brought to fans and teammates, will endure.
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