Former San José State University football standout and coach Chandler Jones, whose accomplishments as both a player and mentor left a lasting legacy at multiple programs, died Sunday after being struck by a vehicle in Los Angeles. He was 33.
A spokesperson for the California Highway Patrol confirmed to NTD News Jones' death, which officials said was pronounced at 2:10 a.m.
Authorities did not immediately release further details regarding the circumstances of the crash.
The school noted that Jones still holds the school’s records for the longest kick-off return (97 yards) and longest fumble recovery (98 yards). He graduated from Bishop Montgomery in 2009.
Jones went on to excel at San José State University, where he remains the Spartans’ career leader in catches and receiving touchdowns. He was also recognized as an honorable mention All-American wide receiver during his collegiate career.
After college, Jones pursued a professional football career. In 2014, he made the practice squads of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Cleveland Browns. He later moved to the Canadian Football League, where he was initially on the practice squad for the Montreal Alouettes before joining the team’s active roster in 2016.
Following his playing career, Jones returned to San José State, working as a graduate assistant on the coaching staff in 2017.
He also coached at the College of Idaho before returning to the Alouettes as an assistant defensive backs coach in 2023 and 2024. During his first year in that role, Jones played an instrumental part in the Alouettes’ Grey Cup championship win.
“Our thoughts are with Chandler’s family and loved ones as they navigate this incredibly difficult time. We extend our heartfelt condolences and offer them our full support,” according to the team’s general manager Danny Maciocia.
In their post on Facebook, Bishop Montgomery High School shared, “Our heartfelt condolences and prayers go out to Chandler’s family and friends.”