After a year away from the NFL, former Atlanta wide receiver Julio Jones formally announced his retirement on Friday. Jones has had stints with the Titans, Bucs, and Eagles since leaving the Falcons. The legend’s body had clearly forsaken him after he left Matt Ryan and the Falcons. One of the most successful players in club history had finally suffered from years of playing with an extreme level of aggressiveness.
After missing the previous season and failing to take on any significant positions in coaching or sports media, it is unclear what the receiver will do next. The future involvement of the Atlanta great with the team would not be shocking. But for the time being, Atlanta should concentrate on paying tribute to the receiver in the right way, beginning with giving Jones the opportunity to sign a one-day contract to formally retire a Falcon.
The club must adhere to the same standard they established with Matt Ryan the previous season, whether they decide to do this or not. In a move that completed the circle for the team after firing Matt Ryan two seasons prior, the Falcons honored Ryan the following season when the veteran quarterback retired by inducting the franchise legend into the Ring of Honor. Jones made a similar request for a trade near the conclusion of Dan Quinn’s time in Atlanta. Considering how frequently the team lost while Julio was in Atlanta, this was a reasonable choice.
The receiver should not be punished or have his influence on the team diminished because he was looking for a chance to win in the latter stages of his career. Jones is deserving of the recognition and respect he deserves as a franchise icon.
During Jones’ tenure with the Falcons, just a few players in Atlanta’s history had nearly the same influence. The receiver, who will retire as the team’s yardage leader, is qualified to be inducted into the Hall of Fame and join Atlanta’s Ring of Honor. Julio’s tenure in Atlanta will always be remembered for its significance to quarterback Matt Ryan’s career as well as to Atlanta fans.