Texans honor former WR Jacoby Jones ahead of Giants game

Before the Houston Texans kicked off their first preseason game at NRG Stadium, the franchise chose to honor a former friend.

Former receiver and returner Jacoby Jones was honored posthumously before SATURDAY game against the New York Giants. The Jones family, along with several former teammates, took to the field as a video of highlights was shown on the giant screens.

Jacoby Jones Jr. fired the victory cannon to signal the start of the game.

Jones, who spent five seasons in Houston before joining the Baltimore Ravens, died peacefully in his sleep at his New Orleans home on July 14, three days after his 40th birthday.

Jacoby Jones Jr. fires the cannon 🤘

To celebrate the life of Jacoby Jones, his family and teammates join us for a special moment. pic.twitter.com/c2X3cofdup

— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) August 17, 2024

According to the Orleans Parish Medical Examiner in New Orleans, Jones died of hypertensive cardiovascular disease. The medical examiner listed the cause of death as natural.

A third-round pick out of Lane College in 2007, Jones caught 127 passes for 1,741 yards and 11 touchdowns with Houston. He also returned three punts for touchdowns.

In memory of Jacoby Jones 🤍 pic.twitter.com/B0sVUo9aqh

— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) August 17, 2024

Jones is perhaps best known for his 180-yard kick return for a touchdown in Super Bowl XLVII, marking the the longest He also caught a 56-yard touchdown pass from Joe Flacco to secure the 34-31 victory over San Francisco.

“HHe was a pleasure to be around, he lit up every room he entered with his great wit, and hell I will really miss you,” Texans Coach DeMeco Ryans said after his death last month. “I was very saddened to hear the news of his passing. Just I am really sorry for the family and for all his teammates, all lives he is touch. Jacoby, I remember he always did a great job in the camps and with the kids, and he always did a great job in that area..”