Super Bowl Champion Calvin Jones Dead at 54 from Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Super Bowl Champion Calvin Jones Dead at 54 from Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

2 minute read
Published: 1/26/2025

Calvin Jones, a former Nebraska Cornhuskers star and NFL player, was found unconscious in his Omaha home and later died at age 54, with preliminary indications pointing to carbon monoxide poisoning.

Calvin Jones's death underscores the critical dangers associated with carbon monoxide exposure, particularly in homes with generators. Found unconscious near a running generator, Jones's tragic passing highlights the urgent need for proper safety measures to prevent similar incidents, as officials await further details from the autopsy report.

Jones's football career began to take shape during his time as a Nebraska Cornhusker from 1991 to 1993. Over those three seasons, he made a significant impact on the field, rushing for a remarkable 3,183 yards and scoring 40 touchdowns. His performance throughout his college career established him as a standout athlete and a crucial asset to the Nebraska football program.

In addition to his impressive statistics, Jones led the Big 8 Conference in scoring during his freshman, sophomore, and junior years. He formed a notable rushing duo alongside Derek Brown under the guidance of legendary coach Tom Osborne in the 'we-back' system, a formation that emphasized exceptional running performance. During the 1992 season, the duo averaged an astonishing 329 rushing yards per game, a feat that contributed to their Orange Bowl appearance later that year.

After his success in collegiate athletics, Calvin Jones was selected in the third round of the 1994 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Raiders. He made his mark in the NFL by playing 15 games for the Raiders and one game for the Green Bay Packers. His stint with the Packers culminated in a significant achievement: being part of the team that won the Super Bowl in 1997.

Following his tragic death, Nebraska Football released a statement expressing mourning for the loss of Calvin Jones. The statement reflects the deep respect and admiration held for him within the football community, emphasizing his contributions not just as an athlete but also as a person. His legacy is remembered fondly among fans, teammates, and coaches alike.

As officials conduct the autopsy to determine the official cause of death, the circumstances surrounding Jones's passing raise awareness about the hazards associated with carbon monoxide. Generators, while often essential for providing power during outages, can pose deadly risks if not used in well-ventilated areas.

The importance of carbon monoxide detectors and safety procedures is increasingly emphasized by health and safety experts. Carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless gas, making it particularly dangerous as it can lead to unconsciousness and death without any prior warning signs. It serves as a critical reminder for homeowners to take preventive measures seriously.

Calvin Jones's death reminds the community and general public of the unpredictable nature of life and the importance of safety within their homes. While the investigation continues, many will remember Jones not only for his athletic talents and accomplishments but also for the life lessons that emerge from this tragedy.