Jacoby Jones, the former NFL player and New Orleans native, passed away due to hypertensive cardiovascular disease. The Orleans Parish coroner has ruled his death to be natural.
Hypertensive heart disease, a condition from unmanaged high blood pressure, can lead to heart failure.
An individual who played a key role in the Baltimore Ravens’ Super Bowl victory died of this disease in New Orleans East on July 14.
Jones, 40, was drafted by the Houston Texans in 2007 and played for them for four years before joining the Baltimore Ravens from 2012 to 2014, earning a Pro Bowl spot in 2012.
He is remembered for the “Mile-High Miracle,” a game-tying 70-yard touchdown catch in the 2013 AFC Divisional game.
In Super Bowl XLVII, he set a record with a 108-yard kickoff return and scored one of two touchdowns, helping the Ravens secure a 22-point lead over the San Francisco 49ers.
Jones family issued the following statement last month following his passing:
“We are deeply saddened to share that Jacoby Jones, a beloved former Ravens football player from New Orleans and a proud graduate of a historically Black college has passed away at the age of 40.
We want to express our gratitude for all the kind thoughts and support you have shown us during this challenging time,” the family wrote.
“Your ongoing support and respecting our privacy means a lot to us.”
The two former teams Jones played for also released statements:
“We are completely heartbroken to learn about the passing of Jacoby Jones. Jacoby had the unique ability to connect with everyone he encountered. His charisma, joy and love created a one-of-a-kind presence that could light up any room or brighten any dark day.” — The Baltimore Ravens.
“We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Jacoby Jones. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time.” — The Houston Texans.
