Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
John Fennelly

Former Giants WR Homer Jones dead at 82

Homer Jones, one of the most exciting and explosive offensive players in the history of the New York Football Giants, has died at the age of 82.

Jones, a flanker out of Texas Southern, was drafted by the Houston Oilers of the AFL in 1963 but a knee injury prevented him from hitting the field and he was cut in training camp. He was signed by the Giants in 1964 and became a star, leading the NFL in receiving touchdowns in 1967, made two Pro Bowls and to this day holds the NFL career record for yards per catch (22.3).

And…he was the first player to spike the football in the end zone after scoring a touchdown.

Jones played in 73 games over six seasons for the Giants from 1964-69, amassing 4,845 yards on 214 receptions and scoring 36 touchdowns.

Jones provided many a moment that forced Giant fans to their feet. He could take it to the house at any time and his speed and elusiveness were legendary. He once defeated world-class speedster and Dallas Cowboys superstar Bob Hayes in a foot race.

But he was largely inconsistent and the rebuilding Giants lost patience with him. Jones was traded to the Cleveland Browns in 1970 in a deal that yielded three players, most notably star running back Ron Johnson.

Jones played one year in Cleveland before being traded to the St. Louis Cardinals, where he retired before the season due to injuries at age 29.

An offer for Giants fans

For the best local North Jersey news, sports, entertainment and culture coverage, subscribe to NorthJersey.com.
Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.