Arthur Jones, Ex-NFL Star and Brother of UFC Fighter Jon Jones, Passes Away at 39
Arthur Jones, a former defensive lineman who played for the Baltimore Ravens, Indianapolis Colts, and Washington Commanders, passed away on Friday, October 3, at the age of 39.
Jones was an NFL player for seven seasons, from 2010-2017, and celebrated a Super Bowl XLVII victory with the Ravens in 2013.
The cause of death remains unspecified as of Saturday, October 4. According to Syracuse.com, emergency services were called to his residence in Pompey, NY, after his defibrillator activated.
“We are deeply saddened by the unexpected loss of Arthur Jones,” said Eric DeCosta, general manager of the Ravens, in a statement. “Arthur’s presence was a blessing to everyone he met. His warm, radiant smile, contagious energy, and unwavering positivity created an uplifting atmosphere for all. He was generous, respectful, and enthusiastic — always showcasing love for his family, teammates, and friends.”
In his own statement, Ravens head coach John Harbaugh expressed that his “heart was heavy.”
“Art was genuinely an extraordinary person,” Harbaugh said, having coached Jones during all three of his seasons in Baltimore. “A dedicated teammate, a tireless worker, and someone any coach would be proud to mentor. His zest for life, kind spirit, and bright smile left a lasting mark on everyone lucky enough to know him.”
Harbaugh added, “He had a special ability to connect with people, bringing joy to the locker room and beyond, and his presence was a guiding light within our team and the Baltimore community. Art’s positive spirit and infectious enthusiasm made him a cherished member of our organization. My heartfelt condolences and thoughts are with Art’s family. May his legacy of kindness endure, and may he rest in peace.”
Jones was the elder brother of former UFC Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones and former defensive end Chandler Jones, a four-time Pro Bowler who won a Super Bowl with the New England Patriots.
The sports community reacted to Jones’s passing on social media, including former Ravens teammate Torey Smith and MMA fighter Conor McGregor.
“RIP to my brother Arthur Jones,” Smith posted on X on Saturday, October 4. “Yesterday was shocking and serves as a reminder that life is short. We lost an incredible man and father.”
Smith and Jones were teammates on the Super Bowl XLVII champion Ravens.
“Very sad to hear this news, Arthur was a remarkable man, a gentle giant!” McGregor wrote on X on Friday, October 3. “Godspeed, Arthur Jones.”
Former NFL defensive back Darius Butler, who played alongside Jones on the Colts in 2016, also shared his condolences on social media.
“Rest in peace, big fella! I’ll miss our random catch-ups and laughs about who knows what,” Butler posted on X on Friday, October 3. “Arthur Jones, you will be MISSED.”
Born in Rochester, NY, Jones played college football at Syracuse University.
He was selected by the Ravens in the fifth round of the 2010 NFL Draft. Throughout his career, he participated in 64 NFL games, achieving 99 tackles, two forced fumbles, and 10 sacks, including one sack in Super Bowl XLVII with the Ravens.
