Chandler Jones began as a walk-on at San José State in 2010, driven by a single focus: “I just want to play football again and be an impact player”. Night after night, even after teammates had left, he stayed behind on the empty field—running precise routes, catching passes that weren’t there, building muscle memory in silence. That solitary ritual became his foundation, culminating in a career of 248 receptions, 31 touchdowns, and the only four straight 50-plus reception seasons in Spartan history. After college, Chandler transitioned to professional football, earning spots on NFL practice squads with the Browns, Colts, and Buccaneers. Though he never cracked an active roster, he maintained his routine. 

By 2023, he was an assistant defensive backs coach for the Montreal Alouettes, teaching a position he never played, but bringing that same meticulous preparation to coaching. The Alouettes credited him with “passion and dedication” during their Grey Cup-winning season. Behind the scenes, he showed up early to film sessions and guided players with calm insight, all while making an impact.

In the weeks before tragedy struck, Chandler was still planning. Offseason drills. Defensive schemes. Player meetings. He was deeply engaged—with unfinished work, evolving tactics, and another season to shape. And then, without warning, that preparation ended. Chandler Jones, age 33, has died. San Jose State honored “#89” with a simple, powerful message, “Forever in our hearts.“

At approximately 2 a.m. on Sunday, June 23, 2025, Chandler Jones was struck and killed by a Toyota RAV4 while walking eastbound on the 90 Freeway near Centinela Avenue in Los Angeles. The California Highway Patrol confirmed the vehicle remained at the scene. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner determined he died of blunt-force trauma and was pronounced dead on site. No additional information has been disclosed.

The Alouettes remembered his “passion and dedication” as a coach. San Jose State honored “#89” with a simple, powerful message, “Forever in our hearts.” And Bishop Montgomery High, the school he attended while living in Torrence, remembered him in an emotional message on Facebook, “It is with great sadness we share the passing of alum Chandler Jones ”09…a standout player who still holds our records for longest kick return (97 yards) and fumble recovery (98 yards).”

His sudden loss leaves teammates, players he coached, and fans across two leagues mourning what might have been.

Fan heart broken after hearing Chandler Jones’ tragic ending!

The shockwaves from Chandler Jones’ tragic passing continue to ripple through the football community, with heartfelt tributes flooding social media from teammates, rivals, and heartbroken fans. “I am so sad to hear this news,” wrote one devastated Spartan supporter. “Chandler Jones was an outstanding model for San Jose State. May he always and forever Rest In Peace.” 

Former San Jose State coach Brent Brennan gave voice to the grief many feel: “My heart is broken at the news of losing this incredible person. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his friends and family. From his freshman year as a WR, to coaching on our staff, he made [SJSU football] better every day. The Jet was special. Love you, brother.”

The numbers tell only a part of Jones’ story. Those program records of receptions and TDs. In the 2013 season, Jones dominated with 79 catches for 1,356 yards and 15 scores. Fans will remember everything. But the memories mean more. “It’s been really hard to grasp what has happened,” shared a close friend. “He was so full of life and ambitions for the future…my man Chan! I’m going to miss you! Way too soon.“

Even rivals paid respect, with BYU’s community sending condolences. But perhaps the most powerful plea came from Spartan faithful, “We would like to see #89 retired forever…Chandler The Jet Jones’ name needs to be in the Ring of Honor.” As the Alouettes organization mourns their coach – “We extend our heartfelt condolences” – one friend’s simple words capture what stats never could, “No way…you were a great friend Chan Chan!”

The records will stand, the highlights will play, but football lost more than a player. It lost someone who made every huddle, every locker room, every moment better.

Rest in peace, Mr. Jones!