The football community is in mourning following the tragic news that former wide receiver and coach Chandler Jones lost his life in a pedestrian car accident earlier this week. Jones, whose career spanned the NFL and CFL, made a lasting impact on both fields as a player and a coach.
Chandler Jones was a part of several NFL practice squads, yet it was in Canada where he truly thrived. This past season, he served as a coach for the Montreal Alouettes, where his guidance led the team to their eighth Grey Cup victory—an achievement that speaks volumes about his skill and dedication to the game.
In a heartfelt statement from the Alouettes, the organization expressed their deep condolences: “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of former assistant defensive backs coach Chandler Jones. He was a passionate and dedicated coach whose professionalism and commitment left a lasting impression on the organization.”
Danny Maciocia, the general manager of the Alouettes, shared his personal sorrow this week, stating, “Our thoughts are with Chandler’s family and loved ones as they navigate this incredibly difficult time. We extend our heartfelt condolences and offer them our full support.”
The tributes honoring Jones have been widespread, echoing the sentiment of loss felt throughout the football and sports world. San Jose State, where Jones played in college, paid tribute on X, stating, “Forever in our hearts, #89. In loving memory of Spartan wide receiver and coach, Chandler Jones.” The Mountain West Conference joined in the mourning, expressing, “We join San José State in mourning the loss of Chandler Jones. Our deepest condolences to his family, teammates, and the Spartan community.”
Even the Tampa Bay Buccaneers community, where Jones was briefly part of the practice squad, reflected on the tragic news. Insider Greg Auman noted with sorrow, “Tragic news on receiver Chandler Jones, 33, who was with the Bucs briefly, on their practice squad in December 2014 and on roster through May 2015.”
Jones’ high school, Bishop Montgomery, also shared their grief through a Facebook post, recalling him as a standout player who still holds records for the longest kickoff return and fumble recovery. They wrote, “It is with great sadness that we share the passing of alum, Chandler Jones ‘09.”
As the football world comes together to remember the beloved Chandler Jones, our thoughts are firmly with his family and loved ones during this profoundly difficult time. The loss is felt deeply, but his contributions to the game and the lives he touched will not be forgotten.
