SIAC Mourns The Loss of NFL Legend
ATLANTA-- The Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference mourns the loss of NFL Legend David "Deacon" Jones.
The original "Sack Master" played three years at South Carolina State and was an All-SIAC performer before finishing his college career at Mississippi Vocational School (Mississippi Valley State).
Selected in the 14th Round of the NFL draft in 1961, Jones was known as one of the most fierce past rushers in NFL history and was inducted to the National Football League Hall of Fame in 1980. Jones had a decorated 14-year career, where he cemented his legacy as the leader of the Los Angeles Rams' Fearsome Foresome unit from 1961-1971.
He then played for San Diego for two seasons before finishing his career with the Washington Redskins in 1974.
Known as one of the most durable players in the history of the game, Jones only missed five games in 14 NFL seasons, and made the Pro Bowl every year from 1964-1970. Because sacks didn't become an official statistic until 1982, Jones career total is uncertain. However, the Rams credit Jones with 159 1/2 sacks and 173 1/2 for his career.
Jones, a native of Eatonville, MS, was also inducted into the inaugural Black College Hall of Fame in 2010, while also earning recognition on the NFL's All- 75th Anniversary team.
Most recently, Jones was the CEO of his own foundation, which began in 1997. In addition, he made several trips to visit troops on active duty in the Middle East.