Zach Jones, a dedicated research manager at ESPN, tragically passed away on Sunday, December 22, at the age of 41, after a courageous two-year battle with metastatic colorectal cancer. His loss has deeply impacted the ESPN family, who remember him not only for his professional contributions but also for his warmth, kindness, and devotion to his family. Jones, a Stanford University graduate, joined ESPN in 2010 as a researcher and steadily rose through the ranks, becoming a part of the management team for the stats and information group in 2018. His work was instrumental in shaping the network’s coverage of live golf, women’s college basketball, and various SportsCenter broadcasts. While his on-screen presence was minimal, his behind-the-scenes efforts were invaluable to the network’s success.
Beyond his professional achievements, Jones was a devoted husband to his wife, Amber, and a loving father to their son, Silas, who turned 10 just a month before his father’s passing. He cherished his family deeply and prioritized their well-being above all else. Jones’ colleagues recall his love for golf, the Stanford Cardinal, and the Chargers, highlighting his diverse interests and passions outside of work. His recent move to Texas with his family underscored his commitment to creating a stable and supportive environment for them. Even in the face of his illness, Jones remained hopeful and focused on ensuring his family’s future.
The news of Jones’ passing was delivered on-air by SportsCenter anchor Randy Scott, who struggled to contain his emotions as he paid tribute to his late colleague. Scott fondly remembered their recent encounter in the cafeteria, describing Jones as hopeful and reflective, primarily concerned about his family’s adjustment to their new life in Texas. Scott emphasized the fierce battle Jones waged against cancer, ultimately finding solace in the fact that he could now rest. He closed his tribute with a heartfelt message of love and a poignant photograph of Jones with his family.
The outpouring of grief and support from ESPN colleagues extended beyond the on-air tribute. Fellow SportsCenter anchor Kevin Negandhi expressed his condolences on social media, highlighting Jones’ devotion to his family, his love for golf and the Chargers, and his exceptional work ethic. Negandhi praised Jones’ demeanor, describing him as perfectly suited for television. He lamented the loss of a fantastic researcher and a wonderful human being, sending love and support to Jones’ wife, son, and family. Negandhi’s message concluded with a powerful condemnation of cancer.
Gregg Colli, another ESPN colleague, added his voice to the chorus of tributes, remembering Jones as the “best.” Colli underscored Jones’ exceptional skills as a fantasy football researcher, his ability to handle immense workloads with a smile, and his unwavering positive attitude. He emphasized Jones’ outstanding character, describing him as one of the best people he knew, and echoed Negandhi’s sentiment that “cancer sucks.” The collective mourning within the ESPN community reflects the profound impact Jones had on those who knew and worked with him.
The loss of Zach Jones is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the devastating impact of cancer. His legacy extends beyond his professional contributions, encompassing his unwavering love for his family, his dedication to his work, and his unwavering spirit in the face of adversity. His colleagues remember him as a kind, compassionate, and dedicated individual who brought joy and positivity to the workplace. While his physical presence is gone, his memory will continue to inspire and motivate those who were fortunate enough to know him. His story serves as a testament to the importance of cherishing loved ones, pursuing passions, and maintaining hope even in the darkest of times. Zach Jones will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and colleagues at ESPN.
