Super Bowl XLVII Champion Passes Away
On Friday, October 3rd, 2025, the Baltimore Ravens announced the tragic and sudden passing of former defensive lineman Arthur Jones at the age of 39. In a statement made by the Ravens, general manager Eric DeCosta said, “We are terribly saddened to learn of Arthur Jones’ sudden passing. 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.” Arthur was the oldest of four siblings, with the younger siblings being retired UFC fighter Jon Jones, retired NFL defensive end Chandler Jones, and a younger sister who passed away due to a brain tumor in 2000, just before her 18th birthday. “We send our deepest condolences to the Jones family and all who loved Arthur.
Born in mid-1983 in Rochester, New York, Arthur attended Syracuse University, overlapping his tenure with his younger brother Chandler for a few years. Arthur was named to the First-Team All-Big East in 2008 and 2009, earning second-team honors once before that in 2007. He ranks sixth on the Orange career record list for tackles for loss. Jones was then drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the fifth round of the 2010 NFL Draft, despite being considered one of the top defensive tackle prospects coming out of college. Jones did not record a stat in his rookie season, appearing in two games, but earned more time on the field in 2011. In 2012, Arthur recorded about five sacks en route to a Super Bowl victory, where Arthur also took down Colin Kaepernick and forced a fumble. Arthur was also able to say he defeated his brother in the regular season and postseason before getting his first and only ring, defeating the New England Patriots in both Week Three and the AFC Championship Game.
Arthur became a full-time starter for the Ravens in 2013 before testing the 2014 free agency market and signing a five-year $30-million contract with the Colts. Arthur struggled to stay on the field due to league policies against performance-enhancing drugs and a multitude of injuries. Jones was released by the Colts in March of 2017 and signed a deal with Washington, but ended up on injured reserve due to a dislocated shoulder and retired at the end of the season. Jones finished his career with 173 total tackles, 17 tackles for losses, 10 sacks, two forced fumbles, and one Super Bowl ring. The Ravens reported Arthur’s passing via X, and the Baltimore family is struck again by the loss of another Raven taken too soon. “He was kind, courteous, and enthusiastic – always displaying a love for family, teammates, and friends.”
