Super Bowl winner Jacoby Jones dies aged 40

Former Baltimore Ravens wide receiver and Super Bowl winner Jacoby Jones has died at the age of 40.

The Ravens have paid tribute to a player who spent three seasons in Baltimore, helping them to Super Bowl glory in 2013.

Jones scored two touchdowns and had a 108-yard kickoff return to start the second half – the longest in Super Bowl history – in Baltimore’s 34-31 win over the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl XLVII.

A statement from the Ravens said: “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.

“Jacoby will long be remembered not just for his success on the football field, but for the lasting personal connections he made with countless people in the Ravens organisation, Baltimore community and every area he called home.

“We share our deepest condolences with Jacoby’s family as we all begin to process this devastating loss.”

Jones was drafted by the Houston Texans in 2007 and played for the franchise until 2011, when he left for Baltimore.

After three seasons with the Ravens, earning Pro Bowl honours in 2012, Jones also played for the San Diego Chargers and Pittsburgh Steelers prior to retirement in 2017.

His former Texans team-mate JJ Watt wrote on social media: “Jacoby was one of the most fun-loving team-mates and people I’ve ever been around. Always dancing and laughing, with a permanent smile on his face. Gone far, far too soon. R.I.P Jacoby Jones.”