Future Hall of Famer Julio Jones Calls it a Career

There have been many talented receivers to grace the NFL, but few have matched the sheer greatness and impact of Julio Jones. Shortly after being selected sixth overall in the 2011 NFL Draft, Jones quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier wide receivers, dominating defenses with his rare combination of size, speed, and precise route-running. At 6’3" and 220 pounds, with a blazing 4.39-second 40-yard dash time, Jones was set to dominate out of the gate—and that’s exactly what he did. The 36-year-old, who most recently suited up for the Philadelphia Eagles in the 2023 season, officially announced his retirement after a long and decorated career.

Over the course of his impressive 13-season career, Jones became synonymous with the Atlanta Falcons franchise, earning a place among the team’s all-time greats. His consistent excellence was recognized through seven Pro Bowl selections and two All-Pro nods, underscoring his status as one of the most dominant players of his era. Beyond individual honors, Jones played a pivotal role in many memorable Falcons moments, consistently drawing double coverage and creating opportunities for teammates. Undoubtedly, the most notable moment of his career came in the Super Bowl against the Patriots, which unfortunately resulted in a devastating Falcons loss. However, Jones made a seemingly impossible grab on the sideline that is forever etched in the memories of those who watched that game.

Across the NFL landscape, his name is synonymous with elite receiving production. He finished his career with an astonishing 914 receptions, amassing 13,703 receiving yards and scoring 66 touchdowns. His total yardage ranks 16th in NFL history, highlighting his lasting impact on the game.

Within the Falcons organization, Jones' legacy is even more pronounced. His 848 receptions and 12,896 yards with the team stand as franchise records, surpassing the marks set by former teammate Roddy White. Though Jones’ 60 touchdown receptions with Atlanta rank just behind White’s 63, his overall contributions have set a standard that future generations of Falcons receivers will aspire to match.

In recognition of his unparalleled dominance during the decade, Jones was named to the Hall of Fame’s All-2010s Team—an honor reserved for the very best at each position. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame feels like an all-but-guarantee. Jones is expected to be among the celebrated classes starting with his eligibility in 2028, five years after his final game. When that day comes, fans both past and present will remember Julio Jones not only as a sensational athlete but also as one of the true icons of the NFL’s modern era.