The NFL world is mourning the death of former Baltimore Ravens wide receiver, returner and Super Bowl legend Jacoby Jones, and that includes Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin, who is connected to Jones in more ways than one.
According to Aaron Wilson of Click2Houston.com, Jones died overnight in his sleep, but no cause has been revealed as of this writing. He was 40 years old.
Jones will always be remembered for his playoff heroics with the Ravens, whether it be his game-winning touchdown catch against the Denver Broncos, or his two-touchdown performance in the Super Bowl against the San Francisco 49ers.
But he'll also be linked to the Steelers forever, as not only did he play for the team in 2015, he was also involved in the infamous 2013 kick return on Thanksgiving where Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin stepped in his way during a return that looked like Jones would score on.
Man, RIP Jacoby Jones. Was with the Steelers late in the 2015 season. Obviously was the returner on this play that included Mike Tomlin. 🙏 #Steelers #NFL pic.twitter.com/No9iPkShkE
— Steelers Depot 7⃣ (@Steelersdepot) July 14, 2024
Shortly after news of Jones' death broke, Tomlin, who coached Jones in 2015, took to social media to share his condolences.
"My heartfelt sympathy goes out to the family of Jacoby Jones during this difficult time," Tomlin wrote. "I enjoyed coaching him during his time with the Steelers.
My heartfelt sympathy goes out to the family of Jacoby Jones during this difficult time. I enjoyed coaching him during his time with the Steelers.
— Mike Tomlin (@CoachTomlin) July 14, 2024
A former third-round pick of the Houston Texans, Jones spent the first five years of his career there before his three-year stint with the Ravens. He appeared in four games with the Steelers in 2015.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to his loved ones at this difficult time.
