Looks like Julio Jones will not be with the Falcons until training camp.
After missing organized team activities due to wanting an update on his contract, general manager Thomas Dimitroff released a statement today on Jones deciding that he also will not be present for mandatory minicamp. Jones, 29, is coming off his fifth 1,000-yard season at wide receiver and his fourth consecutive 1,000-yard campaign since 2014 (1,593 receiving yards).
The former University of Alabama standout and 2011 first-round pick signed a five-year, $71.5 million extension after his performance in 2015. Jones’ output in 2016 guided Atlanta to a Super Bowl matchup against New England and despite his efforts, the Falcons lost 34-28 at home.
In an interview with TMZ Sports, Jones said that there was “no bad blood” between he, Dimitroff and the Falcons. Hopefully, one of the biggest faces in today’s National Football League will get his funds and return to work with a franchise that has benefitted from him.
Minicamp for the Falcons will start on Tuesday and go until Thursday.
Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
