The Baltimore Ravens are dealing with a sudden loss within their own extended football family.
The team announced that former Ravens defensive tackle and Super Bowl champion Arthur Jones has died at 39 years old, breaking the sad news via their official website.
We are terribly saddened to learn of Arthur Jones’ sudden passing,” General Manager Eric DeCosta said in an official statement on behalf of the Ravens. “Arthur’s presence was a gift to everyone he encountered. His big, bright smile, infectious energy and eternal positivity created a presence that continuously uplifted others. He was kind, courteous and enthusiastic — always displaying a love for family, teammates and friends.”
Jones was the older brother of UFC legend and former heavyweight champion Jon Jones and former NFL defensive end, 2-time NFL All-Pro and Super Bowl champion defensive end Chandler Jones.
Ravens Drafted Jones Out of Syracuse in 2010
The Ravens drafted Jones, 6-foot-3 and 310 pounds, in the fifth round (No. 157 overall) out of Syracuse in the 2010 NFL draft after he was a 3-time All-Big East selection.
Jones played a key role for the Ravens during the 2012 regular season, playing in all 16 games with 4.5 sacks — he also had a sack and a fumble recovery for the Ravens in a 34-31 win over the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl LVII.
After becoming a full time starter for the Ravens for the first time in 2013, Jones cashed in with a 5-year, $30 million free agent contract with the Indianapolis Colts in 2014.
Injuries and a suspension for using performance enhancing drugs limited Jones to just 18 regular season games over the next 4 seasons before he retired from football.
From Ravens.com: “Jones started 20 games as a Raven. Over his final two seasons in purple, he posted 100 tackles and 8.5 sacks. Jones sacked 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick in Super Bowl XLVII right before the lights went out in the Superdome. Jones also had a fumble recovery in that game. He spent three years with the Indianapolis Colts and one season with the Washington Commanders after departing Baltimore.
Outpouring of Support for Former Ravens Standout
The Jones’ family received an outpouring of support from across the sports world following the news of Arthur Jones’ death.
“UFC is saddened to hear about the passing of Arthur Jones,” the UFC wrote on its official X account. “Our thoughts go out to his family, friends, and loved ones.”
“RIP to former NFL player Arthur Jones, brother of UFC fighter Jon Jones and NFL player Chandler Jones,” Complex Sports wrote on its official X account. “Sending prayers to the Jones family.”
“We are saddened to learn of the passing of former Colts DT Arthur Jones,” the Colts wrote on their official X account. “Our thoughts are with his family, former teammates, and loved ones.”
“Rest in peace big fella!” former NFL player Darius Butler wrote on his official X account. “I’m going to miss our random check ins and laughs about who knows what. Arthur Jones you will be MISSED.”
“Very sad to hear this news, Arthur was a great man, a friendly giant!” former UFC champion Conor McGregor wrote on his official X account. “God speed Arthur Jones.”
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