Who is Homer Jones? Former New York Giants WR & Pittsburgh native dies at 82

Homer Carroll Jones, an American wide receiver who played in the National Football League (NFL) for the New York Giants (1964–1969) and Cleveland Browns (1970), was a professional football player who died on June 14, 2023. He was renowned for his tremendous size and speed throughout his playing career. Fran Tarkenton asserted that he was speedier than legendary Bob Hayes of the Dallas Cowboys. The “spike” touchdown celebration is Jones’ invention.

Jones was exchanged for veteran defensive tackle Jim Kanicki and running back Ron Johnson by the Browns in January 1970. Following the trade of all-pro wide receiver Paul Warfield to the Miami Dolphins, the Browns were in the market for a new wide receiver.

Who is Homer Jones? Former New York Giants WR & Pittsburgh native dies at 82

Homer Jones, a wide receiver who was twice selected to the Pro Bowl and played in the NFL for the New York Giants and Cleveland Browns, has passed away. He is remembered as one of the first players to spike the ball following a touchdown. He was 82. When Jones passed away, he was suffering lung cancer.