June Jones, former Falcons coach, dies at 73

June Jones, who led the Atlanta Falcons as head coach from 1994 to 1996, has died. The team confirmed the news on Thursday. He was 73.

Jones spent four seasons as the Falcons' starting quarterback from 1977 to 1981. He returned to the organization in 1991 as the offensive coordinator, a role he held for three years. After serving as assistant head coach for the 1993 season, he replaced Jerry Glanville to take over the head coaching job.

His first year at the helm produced a 21-8 record, which included a playoff berth. The Falcons lost in the divisional round to the Houston Oilers that January. The team noted that Jones helped build the infrastructure for future coaching success. He mentored several assistants who later became head coaches in the league, including Dan Reeves and Mike Holmgren.

The Falcons released a statement on social media honoring his legacy. They described him as a visionary in the passing game. The organization said they will remember him for his contributions and the impact he had on the players he mentored.

Jones coached the University of Texas as an assistant head coach and full-time assistant in various roles. He also served as a head coach at the University of Texas and the University of Hawaii, as well as with the San Francisco 49ers and the New England Patriots.

The team's statement extended condolences to his family and friends. It noted that he will be remembered for the lasting impact he made on those he coached and mentored.