Calvin Jones, a prominent figure in the history of college football, has sadly passed away at the age of 54. The former Nebraska running back, renowned for his remarkable speed and strength during the early 1990s, was found deceased in the basement of a residence in north Omaha on Wednesday evening, as reported by law enforcement. Authorities suspect that Jones succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning, as he had been operating a generator due to heating problems in his home.
Omaha Police responded to a residence near 38th and Franklin Street after a neighbor alerted firefighters to a gas smell. Upon arrival, officers discovered a man, later identified as Jones, deceased in the basement. Police confirmed to First Alert 6 that a generator was present at the location, and there were indications of carbon monoxide poisoning.
A friend, Jo Dusatho, informed the Omaha World-Herald that Jones had resorted to using a generator in the basement because his furnace was malfunctioning. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless and odorless gas that can be lethal when inhaled in significant quantities. It is produced by the combustion of fuel in vehicles, stoves, fireplaces, and heating systems. CO poisoning poses a particular risk as it is difficult to detect without a carbon monoxide detector.
The official cause of death has yet to be determined, pending autopsy results. Jones was celebrated for his record-breaking performances and played a crucial role in the Green Bay Packers’ Super Bowl victory in 1996. His legacy is indelibly linked to his time in Lincoln, Nebraska, where he became an emblem of Cornhusker pride. Throughout his three-year college football career in the Big 8 conference, Jones participated in 30 games, amassing impressive rushing and receiving statistics, including 461 rushing attempts for 3,153 yards, an average of 6.8 yards per carry, and 40 rushing touchdowns.
His average rushing performance per game was recorded at 105.1 yards. In his role as a receiver, he achieved 24 receptions for a total of 304 yards, resulting in an average of 12.7 yards per catch, along with 2 receiving touchdowns, which added an extra 10.1 yards per game to his contributions. When combining his rushing and receiving statistics, he amassed 485 touches, accumulating 3,457 scrimmage yards, with an average of 7.1 yards per play and a total of 42 touchdowns.
Fans particularly remember his impressive sophomore season in 1991, during which he rushed for 1,162 yards and scored 14 touchdowns, earning All-Big Eight recognition. His adaptability and commitment on the field distinguished him not only in college but also throughout his professional career in the NFL.
In 1996, Jones signed with the Green Bay Packers and played a role in the team’s iconic Super Bowl XXXI triumph. Although his NFL career was relatively short, his impact on the game resonated with both teammates and fans.
The announcement of Jones’ passing elicited a significant outpouring of tributes. Former teammates, coaches, and fans have taken to social media to pay homage to a man celebrated for his humility and work ethic, in addition to his football skills.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Husker legend and Super Bowl Champion, Calvin Jones. Our hearts go out to the Jones family, and he will be greatly missed,” stated the Huskers in a press release on Monday.
Jones was honored with induction into the Nebraska Hall of Fame in 2004.
