Categories: NFLSports

Julio Jones on Falcons future: ‘I’m out of there’, where to next?

All-Pro wide receiver Julio Jones made it clear Monday morning that he doesn’t want to return to the Atlanta Falcons.

Hall of Fame member Shannon Sharpe, co-host of “Undisputed” on FOX Sports, called Jones live on the show and asked him if he was going to continue his career in Atlanta.

“Oh, no, man,” Jones responded. “I’m out of there, man.”

It wasn’t as clear, however, whether Jones knew he was on live television.

Multiple reports emerged before the NFL Draft last month that indicated that the Falcons were listening to trade overtures from other teams. NFL Network reported Jones requested a trade months ago.

Sharpe asked Jones if he had a preferred team, to which he said, “Right now, I want to win.”

As of Monday morning, oddsmakers made the New England Patriots the overwhelming favorite to land him in a trade, followed by the Tennessee Titans and Baltimore Ravens.

Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Jones, 32, caught 51 passes for 771 yards and three touchdowns in nine games in 2020. His low production was a byproduct of injuries. The Falcons selected him with the No. 6 overall pick in the 2011 draft.

The seven-time Pro Bowl selection has three years left on his contract, including $15.3 million for the 2021 season and $11.53 million for 2022 and 2023. His salary-cap hit for 2021 is $23.1 million.

Between Jones, Matt Ryan, and defensive tackle Grady Jarrett, more than $70 million in 2021 salary cap space is consumed by three contracts.

Jones and Ryan have been one of the most prolific combinations in NFL history. Entering last season, Jones’ career average of 96.2 receiving yards per game was the best in NFL history.

But the hamstring injury derailed his 2020 season and Ryan clicked with Calvin Ridley. The third-year pro caught 90 passes for 1,374 yards and nine touchdowns. He’s owed just $1.9 million in the final year of his rookie contract but the Falcons are planning to exercise his fifth-year option for 2022.

Julio Jones next team odds

  • New England Patriots: +150
  • Tennessee Titans: +200
  • Baltimore Ravens: +500
  • San Francisco 49ers: +600
  • Green Bay Packers: +750
  • Dallas Cowboys: +800
Reuters

Recent Posts

Series Preview: Red Hot Phillies host Giants for 4-Game Series

The Phillies return home after a 10 game road trip, including a little 6 game…

6 mins ago

Phillies vs Giants: Betting preview, predictions & how to watch for Friday May 3rd

Phillies vs Giants: Is there any stopping this Phillies team? 7-3 in their last 10…

10 mins ago

Saquon Barkley responds to Giants fan calling him a traitor, says he ‘went to the organization he felt was best’

It seems like eliminating the Sixers from the playoffs just isn’t enough for your regular…

1 hour ago

Ranger Suarez awarded NL Pitcher of the Month after an incredible month of April

The Philadelphia Phillies were among the hottest teams in baseball during the month of April.…

2 hours ago

Eagles rookie jersey numbers revealed: Jeremiah Trotter Jr. takes on his Father’s old number

The Philadelphia Eagles started their Friday morning with some good vibes, revealing the jersey numbers…

4 hours ago

Deaths at the Kentucky Derby bring changes ahead of the 150th edition at Churchill Downs

By BETH HARRIS AP Racing Writer Memories are made at the Kentucky Derby, most of them…

6 hours ago

This website uses cookies.