Former Giants wide receiver Homer Jones dead at 82 – The Denver Post

Former Giants wide receiver Homer Jones has died at the age of 82 following a battle with lung cancer, the team announced Wednesday.

Jones is credited with the invention of the spike and is known for his speed on the field during his seven-year career.

“Homer Jones had a unique combination of speed and power and was a threat to score whenever he touched the ball,” said Giants president John Mara. “He was one of the first players [if not the first] to spike the ball in the end zone after scoring a touchdown and he quickly became a fan favorite. I remember him as an easygoing, friendly individual who was well liked by his teammates and coaches.”

The Pittsburg, Texas native spent six seasons with the Giants, from 1964-69, after a brief stint with the Houston Oilers. He surpassed the 1,000-yard mark three times with the Giants from 1966-68 and was selected to two Pro Bowls during that stretch. His 1209 receiving yards and 13 touchdown receptions in the 1967 season led the NFL.

Jones is credited with inventing the spike in 1965, when he threw the ball to the ground after scoring a touchdown.

In 1970, the receiver was traded to the Browns. He caught just 10 passes for 141 yards that season as he was limited due to knee injuries. He soon retired at the age of 29.

Jones is survived by his six children.

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