Hall of Fame defensive end David “Deacon” Jones died of natural causes at his home in Southern California on Monday night. The former Los Angeles Rams star was 74 years old.
Football enthusiasts credit Jones for revolutionizing the defensive end position and creating the term “sack.” He spent 11 seasons with the LA Rams before closing out his career with the San Diego Chargers for two seasons and Washington Redskins for one. In 190 career games, Jones racked up 173.5 sacks — which were kept as an unofficial stat at the time he played.
“Deacon Jones was one of the greatest players in NFL history,” Redskins general manager Bruce Allen, whose father George coached Jones with the Rams, said Monday according to ESPN.com. “Off the field, he was a true giant. His passion and spirit will continue to inspire those who knew him. He was a cherished member of the Allen family and I will always consider him my big brother.”
Jones, who was ranked the 15th best player of all time by NFL.com, played in eight pro bowls and was a five-time first-team All Pro selection. He unofficially holds the two highest single-season sack totals with 26 sacks in 1967 and 24 in 1968. Michael Strahan holds the official record with 23 in a season.
Along with Merlin Olsen, Rosey Grier and Lamar Lundy, Jones formed what was known as the “Fearsome Foursome” — a defensive line unit that is widely considered to be the greatest to ever play. Jones was drafted in the 14th round out of Mississippi Valley State in 1961, so it’s safe to say his phenomenal NFL career came as a surprise to many.
Our thoughts go out to Jones’ family and friend during this difficult time.
