The American football community is mourning the death of June Jones, the respected former head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, the University of Hawaii and Southern Methodist University (SMU), who has died at the age of 73.
Jones died on Thursday, October 29, 2026, in Oregon. His death was confirmed by his organisation, Run and Shoot Certification, which paid tribute to his influence on the game and the many players whose careers he helped shape.
In a statement, the organisation described his greatest legacy as the opportunities he created for others, the people he believed in and the lasting impact he made on their lives.
A Pioneer of the Run-and-Shoot Offence
Jones earned widespread recognition for his innovative approach to American football, particularly his use of the run-and-shoot offence, a system designed to create passing opportunities through coordinated movement and quick decisions by receivers and quarterbacks.
His coaching philosophy helped establish him as one of the notable offensive minds in the sport, influencing players and coaches at both professional and college levels.
Before becoming a coach, Jones played as a quarterback in college and later featured for the Atlanta Falcons in the National Football League (NFL) between 1977 and 1981.
He subsequently returned to Atlanta as an assistant coach and offensive coordinator before being appointed head coach in 1994. During his three seasons in charge, the Falcons recorded 19 wins and 29 defeats, reaching the postseason in 1995.
Jones also had a brief spell as interim head coach of the San Diego Chargers in 1998.
Transformed Hawaii Football
One of the defining periods of Jones’ coaching career came at the University of Hawaii, where he took charge in 1999 after the team had endured a winless 0–12 season.
He quickly helped turn the programme around, guiding the Rainbow Warriors to a 9–4 record and an Oahu Bowl victory in his first season.
Across nine seasons, from 1999 to 2007, Jones compiled a 76–41 record, won two conference titles and led Hawaii to six bowl appearances.
His most memorable achievement came in 2007, when he guided the team to an unbeaten 12–0 regular season, secured the Western Athletic Conference championship and earned a historic appearance in the Sugar Bowl.
His time at Hawaii also helped develop prominent quarterbacks, including Timmy Chang and Colt Brennan, who became widely recognised for their passing performances.
The university described Jones as a visionary coach who elevated the programme and restored pride among players, supporters and the wider community.
Revived SMU’s Football Programme
Jones joined SMU in 2008 and faced the challenge of rebuilding a team that had struggled in his first season.
After finishing his debut campaign with a 1–11 record, he led the Mustangs to bowl victories in the following two seasons and helped restore the university’s presence in postseason college football.
During his tenure, SMU reached four consecutive bowl games, ending a 25-year wait for a bowl appearance. Jones stepped down two games into the 2014 season.
SMU Athletics expressed sadness over his death, acknowledging his contribution to the programme and extending condolences to his family, friends, former players and colleagues.
Tributes Highlight His Impact Beyond Football
Tributes from former players and sporting figures have emphasised Jones’ influence beyond tactics and results.
University of Hawaii head coach Timmy Chang, who played under Jones, described him as a father figure, mentor and visionary who gave him an opportunity that shaped his career.
Hawaii Governor Josh Green also praised Jones for motivating young people and helping bring attention to the state through the football programme’s achievements.
Jones is remembered not only for his coaching record and offensive innovation but also for his commitment to developing players and giving young athletes opportunities to succeed.
Details of memorial arrangements are expected to be announced by the relevant institutions and his representatives.
His death marks the loss of a significant figure in American football, whose influence extended across the NFL and college game.
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