Arthur Jones, a former NFL defensive tackle who was part of the Baltimore Ravens‘ Super Bowl 47 team, has died, the team announced on Friday. He was 39.
“We are terribly saddened to learn of Arthur Jones’ sudden passing,” Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta said in a statement.
“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.
“We send our deepest condolences to the Jones family and all who loved Arthur.”
Syracuse University, Jones’ alma mater, said he died Friday morning. A cause of death was not immediately announced.
Jones was the older brother of MMA legend Jon Jones and former four-time Pro Bowl NFL defensive end Chandler Jones. The Rochester, New York, native attended Syracuse, where he set a school record for career tackles for loss by an interior defensive lineman (38.5) and made three All-Big East Teams.
“Arthur Jones was a tremendous player and even better person,” Syracuse director of athletics John Wildhack said in a statement. “He was someone that brought joy to everyone he encountered.
“We were fortunate that Arthur continued to support our football program after his playing career. He impacted many of our student-athletes, always with a smile and uplifting message. Our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones. He will be forever Orange.”
The Ravens selected Jones in the fifth round of the 2010 draft. He spent his first four pro seasons with Baltimore, tallying 8.5 sacks, 120 tackles, 13 tackles for loss and 22 quarterback hits over 46 appearances.
Jones had possibly his best season in the Ravens’ 2012 Super Bowl-winning campaign with 4.5 sacks, 47 tackles and five tackles for loss in 16 games. He also made his mark in the Big Game with a sack, tackle for loss and fumble recovery as Baltimore defeated the San Francisco 49ers 34-31.
FILE — Arthur Jones, #97 of the Baltimore Ravens reacts, after he recovered a fumble during Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
Jones went on to play 17 combined games with the Indianapolis Colts across the 2014 and 2016 seasons. His final NFL appearance came with Washington in 2017.
The Associated Press contributed to this story.