Julio Jones and the Atlanta Falcons are approaching finalization on a 3-year, $66 million extension.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, 97 percent of the $66 million is guaranteed in the new contract. This deal will make Jones the highest-paid wide receiver in the NFL. The extension comes just months after Michael Thomas of the New Orleans Saints signed a deal that made him the highest-paid receiver.
Jones was quoted as saying, “I don’t know,” when asked if he would play this season without a new deal. No holdouts occurred, however, as both sides agreed one day before Atlanta’s Week 1 matchup Sunday against the Vikings.
The five-time Pro Bowler led the league in receiving yards in 2018, at 1,677. Tied for fourth in receptions at 113, eight of those went for Falcons touchdowns. Aside from his 2013 season, durability has not been an issue with Jones, as he has played all 16 games in three of the last four seasons.
Paying for dependability, big-play potential and all-around skill is the smart move for Atlanta. Jones and quarterback Matt Ryan have one of the deepest connections in the league. It seems it will remain that way for at least three more years.
Featured Image courtesy of David J. Phillip/AP
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