Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh leads tributes to Jacoby Jones after his death at 40: 'He was a light'

Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh led the tributes to former NFL player Jacoby Jones following the news of his death.

On Sunday morning, an official source from the Ravens confirmed his passing with WJZ. The former wide receiver and kick returner was 40 years old.

While the cause of his death is yet to be revealed, tributes honoring Jones' life and career flooded social media. After coaching him for three years in Baltimore, Harbaugh mourned Jones' death shortly after the news surfaced.

'I loved Jacoby Jones. We all did,' Harbaugh said in a statement . 'His spirit, enthusiasm and love for people were powerful. He was a light. He was the cherished son of his loving mom, Ms. Emily. They were so close.'

'He was a man of faith. My favorite football play was when Jacoby was talking to his mom in the end zone, just before a late-game kickoff return against the Vikings in a snowstorm shootout.

'Jacoby then raced to catch the ball and run it back for a touchdown. My favorite Jacoby personal moment was every time I saw his smiling face full of Joy. Rest in peace, Jacoby, in the arms of Jesus.'

The New Orleans native played a pivotal part in the Ravens Super Bowl 47 win over the San Francisco 49ers in 2013 - scoring a Super Bowl record 108-yard kickoff return.

'We are completely heartbroken to learn about the passing of Jacoby Jones,' the Ravens team statement read. '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 organization, 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 played for the Houston Texans from 2007-2011 before joining the Ravens. From there, he would have short stints with the San Diego Chargers, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Monterey Steel in the National Arena League.

'We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Jacoby Jones,' the Texans wrote in their statement. 'Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time.'

'Jacoby was one of the most fun-loving teammates and people I've ever been around,' wrote JJ Watt, who joined Jones in Houston before his departure. 'Always dancing and laughing, with a permanent smile on his face. Gone far, far too soon. R.I.P Jacoby Jones.'

'Jacoby Jones was an absolute legend,' said ESPN's Pat McAfee. 'He was beloved by literally everybody he met and lit up every room/field he walked into/onto. Rest easy my brother.. we will miss your presence.'

With five First-Team All-Pro honors and five Pro Bowl selections, Jones lead the NFL in sacks for two seasons and was crowned the Defensive Player of the Year on three occasions. Jones finished his career with 586 total tackles, 114.5 sacks, 70 pass deflections, 27 forced fumbles, and 17 recoveries.

After retiring in 2017, Jones served as a tight ends coach at Morgan State University.