Julio Jones Announces Retirement from NFL

Flowery Branch, Ga. — A legend has hung up his cleats. Former Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones officially announced his retirement from the NFL on Friday, April 4. In a heartfelt video, Jones shared his thoughts on social media, saying, “I’m making this announcement today because of the city of Atlanta. Thank you, man. I appreciate y’all. It’s nothing but love. I’m doing this on 404 day.”

Drafted out of the University of Alabama in 2011 with the No. 6 overall pick, Jones joined the Falcons after the team made a significant trade with the Cleveland Browns. To secure Jones, Atlanta sent five draft picks, including their first-round pick that year. At that time, the Falcons already had Pro Bowl wide receiver Roddy White but needed to strengthen their offense following a disappointing playoff exit. Former Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff remarked on the bold decision, stating they saw Jones as the player who could bring explosive athleticism to their offense.

Jones went on to have a historic career with the Falcons, recording a franchise-best 12,896 receiving yards and 60 touchdowns over 134 games from 2011 to 2020. He also set an NFL record as the fastest player to reach 12,000 receiving yards, which he accomplished in the 2019 season. During his decade with Atlanta, he was a vital player in their four playoff appearances and Super Bowl run in the 2016 season.

In his retirement video, Jones thanked his teammates and coaches, specifically mentioning quarterback Matt Ryan for helping him learn the playbook in 2011, saying, “Matt Ryan, thank you. It was a lockout in 2011. You went as far as taking me to your home, showing me the playbook.”

Though his time with the Falcons was the most significant chapter in his career, Jones went on to play for the Tennessee Titans, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Philadelphia Eagles in the later years of his career. By the time he retired at 36, Jones had accumulated a total of 13,703 career receiving yards, ranking No. 16 on the NFL’s all-time leaderboard.

Reflecting on his journey, Jones said, “I started when I was 8 years old, just a kid from Foley, Alabama. It was an amazing ride.” His departure leaves a notable silence in the Falcons’ history, as fans and teammates remember the exceptional talent and determination he brought to the field.