Jones was placed in hospice care two weeks ago, as he’s dealt with health issues earlier this year, per the Honolulu Star-Advertiser.The University of Hawai’i, where Jones served as head coach from 1999-2007 after playing quarterback for the Rainbow Warriors, confirmed his death.CLICK HERE FOR MORE OUTKICK SPORTS COVERAGEJune Jones walks onto the field before the game against the Nevada Wolfpack at the Clarence T.C.Ching Athletics Complex on Oct.
26, 2024, in Honolulu, Hawaii.(Getty Images)Timmy Chang, Hawai’i’s current head coach, became the NCAA’s all-time passing yards leader under the tutelage of Jones.
He said "words can’t express the sorrow" he feels learning of his old coach’s passing."Coach Jones was a father figure, a mentor, and a visionary who revolutionized the game," Chang said in a statement, per ESPN."He believed in a young kid from Hawai’i and gave me the opportunity of a lifetime to run his offense.
And his impact didn’t stop when my playing days ended.He guided me every step of the way as I transitioned into coaching, always making time to share his wisdom and support me when I took over this program.THE CRAIG CARTON SHOW–UNFILTERED, UNAPOLOGETIC AND UNMISSABLE.
DOWNLOAD HIS DAILY PODCAST NOW!"He put Hawai'i football on the map and showed us all what was possible.We lost a true legend today, but I will spend the rest of my career trying to honor his legacy, his passion for this university and the Aloha he shared with everyone he touched.
My deepest condolences go out to his 'ohana and all those who he impacted."After playing college ball at Hawai’i, Portland State and Oregon, Jones signed as an undrafted free agent with the Atlanta Falcons, whom he spent four seasons with, backing up quarterback Steve Bartkowski.He started five games in his NFL career, winning just one.Jones’ coaching career began right after his playing days were over.
He eventually worked his way to become the Falcons’ head coach from 1994-96, and ...