NFL MOURN: Nebraska Football Legend Calvin Jones Found Dead at 54 in His Omaha Home; Community Mourns the Loss of a True Icon

Nebraska Football Mourns the Loss of Icon Calvin Jones at 54

Omaha, Nebraska – The Nebraska football community is cloaked in grief following the sudden passing of one of its most beloved figures, Calvin Jones, at the age of 54. Known for his electrifying speed and remarkable athleticism, Jones left an indelible mark on both Nebraska football and the NFL.

Jones, who was found deceased in his Omaha home on January 23, 2025, was renowned for his tenure as a running back for the Nebraska Cornhuskers from 1990 to 1993. His career at Nebraska was nothing short of spectacular, where he rushed for over 3,000 yards and scored 40 touchdowns, securing his place among the elite in Nebraska’s storied football history. He was a two-time All-American and a key component of the Huskers’ “We-Backs” system, alongside Derek Brown. His performance on the field was so dominant that he was a finalist for the prestigious Doak Walker Award, recognizing the nation’s top running back.

After his college career, Jones transitioned to the NFL, being drafted by the Los Angeles Raiders in the third round of the 1994 NFL Draft. Although his NFL journey was brief, it was highlighted by his contribution to the Green Bay Packers’ Super Bowl XXXI victory in the 1996-1997 season. His professional stats may not have mirrored his college success, but his talent was undeniable, finishing with 112 rushing yards over 27 carries in his NFL career.

The circumstances surrounding Jones’s death were as tragic as they were unexpected. Reports from local authorities suggest that carbon monoxide poisoning may have been the cause, with a generator found in use in his home due to issues with his heating system. This heart-wrenching detail has underscored the suddenness of his departure, leaving the football community in shock.

Jones’s legacy extends beyond the gridiron. He was an active member of the Omaha community, known for his involvement in youth programs and his advocacy against drug use. His induction into the Nebraska Football Hall of Fame in 2004 was a testament to his contributions both on and off the field.

Tributes have poured in from former teammates, coaches, and fans across platforms like X, where posts reflect the deep impact Jones had on those who watched him play and those who knew him personally. Many remember not only his athletic prowess but also his character, his warmth, and the way he inspired so many young athletes in Nebraska.

The University of Nebraska and the NFL have both expressed their condolences, with the Huskers organizing a moment of silence at their next game to honor Jones. His number, while not officially retired, will be remembered by all who saw him play, his records and highlights a permanent fixture in Husker lore.

Calvin Jones’s life was cut tragically short, but his legacy as a football hero, a community leader, and a person of great heart will endure. He leaves behind a community that will forever cherish his memory and a football world that has lost one of its shining stars.