Arthur Jones, former NFL player for the Baltimore Ravens and brother of ex-Ultimate Fighting Championship two-division champ Jon Jones, has died at age 39.
The Ravens announced the news on Friday, while not providing any information surrounding his passing including the cause of death. While Jones played football professionally across seven seasons, he retired from the sport in 2017 in part due to injury. His career with the Washington Redskins—they had not yet changed their name to the Commanders—was cut short after just one game, when a shoulder injury put him on the injured reserve list.
“We are terribly saddened to learn of Arthur Jones’ sudden passing,” the Ravens’ wrote, penned by Ravens’ general manager Eric DeCosta. “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.”
Super Bowl 47 Champion
Jones’ greatest year of success in the NFL likely came during the 2012 season, when his team of the Ravens reached and won the Super Bowl over the San Francisco 49ers. Jones served as the team’s starting defensive end, frustrating quarterback Colin Kaepernick to throwing an interception during the course of the game. Additionally, teammate Courtney Upshaw dislodged the ball during one of LaMichael James’ carries, resulting in Jones recovering a fumble that later led to a Baltimore touchdown.
The 6-foot-3 defensive back started his career as a redshirt freshman at Syracuse University. The First Team All-Big East two-time selection was drafted by the Ravens in the 2010 NFL Draft in the fifth round, which culminated in his triumph in the Super Bowl. After measuring multiple career high stats involving tackles and fumbles, Jones departed to the Indianapolis Colts, where he played for two seasons in 2014 and 2016—although he was suspended for performance-enhancing drugs during the latter.
The UFC also put out a brief statement about Jones’ death.
“UFC is saddened to hear about the passing of Arthur Jones. Our thoughts go out to his family, friends and loved ones,” the organization posted on social media.
We are terribly saddened to learn of Arthur Jones’ sudden passing. pic.twitter.com/waPIF3Bj7K
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) October 3, 2025