The NFC South has welcomed back Julio Jones.
NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero reported on Tuesday that the Buccaneers have agreed to terms with the veteran wide receiver on a one-year contract, citing unnamed sources.
Having played for the Falcons for 10 seasons, Jones now joins a former rival in Tampa Bay with the hopes of going head-to-head with quarterback Tom Brady, who robbed Atlanta of a Super Bowl ring in an incredible comeback during the previous year’s Super Bowl LI.
With Jones in the mix, Brady should be able to continue Tampa’s offensive success. In addition to Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, and Russell Gage, Jones joins a formidable Buccaneers receiving group. Jones serves as a sort of insurance policy while Godwin recovers from an ACL injury he suffered late in the 2021 season. The Buccaneers also lost Rob Gronkowski to retirement this summer.
At Tennessee, Jones was limited to 31 receptions for 434 yards and one touchdown due to injuries during his most recent season. Despite his injury, Jones was able to play in the Titans’ playoff series against the Bengals, recording six receptions for 62 yards.
Jones is coming off a career-low season in all categories and may benefit from a new environment in Tampa. Passing yards per game (307.6) and points per game (30.1) were the Buccaneers’ best stats for 2021. In his 22nd NFL season, Brady set records for passing yards (5,316) and touchdowns (43) among NFL quarterbacks.
Of all active players, Jones holds the record for most receiving yards (13,330) with seven Pro Bowl appearances and two All-Pro honors to his name. The Falcons’ all-time leading wide receiver, Julio Jones, will be in Tampa Bay hoping to get his hands on the coveted Super Bowl ring.
In Gregg Rosenthal’s Top 101 free agent list for 2022, Jones was one of the last 12 players.