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Deion Jones
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Deion Jones (born November 4, 1994) is an American professional football linebacker for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the LSU Tigers, and was selected by Atlanta Falcons in the second round of the 2016 NFL draft.
Key Information
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Early life
[edit]Jones attended Jesuit High School in New Orleans, Louisiana, where he was a three-year starter at middle linebacker.[1][2] As a senior, he had 179 tackles, eight sacks, and three interceptions, helping Jesuit to the LHSAA Class 5A quarterfinals, where the Blue Jays lost to Carencro.[citation needed]
Regarded as a three-star recruit by Rivals.com, Jones was ranked as the No. 31 outside linebacker prospect in the class of 2012.[3] Recruited by Corey Raymond, Jones originally committed to Nebraska in August 2011,[4] but changed his commitment to Louisiana State after receiving a late offer in December 2011.[5]
College career
[edit]Under head coach Les Miles, Jones was a backup his first three years at LSU, appearing in 39 games with one start.[6] As a freshman in 2012, he recorded 23 total tackles (three tackles-for-loss).[7] As a sophomore in 2013, he recorded 15 total tackles (one tackle-for-loss).[8] As a junior in 2014, he recorded 26 total tackles (3.5 tackles-for-loss), one pass defended, and one --fumble recovery.[9] As a senior in 2015, he became a starter for the first time.[10] In his final collegiate season, he recorded 100 total tackles (13.5 tackles-for-loss), five sacks, two interceptions, one pick-six, three passes defended, and one forced fumble.[11] He was a finalist for the Butkus Award.[12]
Professional career
[edit]Pre-draft
[edit]On December 8, 2015, it was announced that Jones had accepted his invitation to play in the 2016 Senior Bowl.[13] On January 30, 2016, Jones played in the Reese's Senior Bowl and recorded six combined tackles as part of Jacksonville Jaguars' head coach Gus Bradley's South team that defeated the North 27–16.[14] He was limited to 26 snaps, but was able to perform well enough throughout the week to impress scouts and coaches.[15] Jones was one of 34 collegiate linebackers to attend the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, Indiana, and completed most of the drills, but opted to skip the three-cone drill, short shuttle, and bench press. Jones finished fourth among all participating linebackers in the 40-yard dash, eighth in the vertical jump, and finished tenth in the broad jump.[16]
On March 14, 2016, Jones attended LSU's pro day and chose to perform positional drills and all of the combine drills, but opted to stand on his broad jump performance. All together, he performed the 40-yard dash (4.38s), 20-yard dash (2.52s), 10-yard dash (1.52s), bench press (18 reps), vertical jump (35+1⁄2"), short shuttle (4.26s), and three-cone drill (7.13s). He had an excellent overall performance in the combine drills and positional drills and his 40-yard dash (4.38s) would have finished first among all linebackers at the NFL combine. His time in the 40 was adjusted to an official time of 4.40s and dramatically increased his draft stock and profile. His pro day performance was described as "off the charts" by NFL analyst Gil Brandt.[17] He attended private workouts and visits with multiple teams, including the New Orleans Saints, Indianapolis Colts, Philadelphia Eagles, New York Jets, and San Francisco 49ers.[18][19][20][21] At the conclusion of the pre-draft process, Jones was projected to be a second or third round pick by NFL draft experts and scouts. He was able to raise his draft stock with his performances throughout the draft process and went from a projected third or fourth round pick to an all but guaranteed second rounder.[22][23] He was ranked the sixth best outside linebacker prospect in the draft by NFLDraftScout.com, was ranked the sixth best linebacker in the draft by NFL analyst Mike Mayock, and was ranked the ninth best linebacker by Sports Illustrated.[24][25][26]
| Height | Weight | Arm length | Hand span | 40-yard dash | 10-yard split | 20-yard split | 20-yard shuttle | Three-cone drill | Vertical jump | Broad jump | Bench press | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 ft 0+7⁄8 in (1.85 m) |
222 lb (101 kg) |
32+3⁄8 in (0.82 m) |
9+1⁄4 in (0.23 m) |
4.38 s | 1.52 s | 2.52 s | 4.26 s | 7.13 s | 35.5 in (0.90 m) |
10 ft 0 in (3.05 m) |
18 reps | |
| All values from NFL Combine/LSU's Pro Day[17][27][28][29] | ||||||||||||
Atlanta Falcons
[edit]2016 season
[edit]The Atlanta Falcons selected Jones in the second round with the 52nd overall pick in the 2016 NFL draft. He was the eighth linebacker selected in 2016 and was the first of two linebackers the Falcons selected in 2016, along with fourth round pick (115th overall) De'Vondre Campbell.[30] Jones was also reunited with LSU teammate Jalen Collins.[31][32] The Falcons decided to draft Jones after linebackers coach Jeff Ulbrich scouted him at the combine. Ulbrich and head coach Dan Quinn thought Jones was an ideal candidate to play middle linebacker with his speed and pass coverage ability.[33]
On May 5, 2016, the Falcons signed Jones to a four-year, $4.54 million contract that includes $2.16 million guaranteed and a signing bonus of $1.50 million.[34]
Throughout training camp, Jones competed against veteran Paul Worrilow for the job as the starting middle linebacker. Jones credits Worrilow for guiding him through the beginning of his career and stated Worrilow acted as a mentor even though Jones was drafted with the intent of eventually replacing him.[35] Quinn named Jones the starting middle linebacker to start the regular season.[36]
Jones made his NFL debut and first NFL start in the season-opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and recorded six combined tackles in a 31–24 loss. On September 26, 2016, Jones collected nine combined tackles, broke up two passes, and returned his first NFL interception for a 90-yard touchdown during a 45–32 road victory against the Saints.[37] His interception came in the fourth quarter off a pass attempt by Drew Brees and marked his first NFL touchdown.[38] Jones was inactive for the Falcons' Week 5 victory at the Denver Broncos, after sustaining an ankle injury the previous week.[39] During Week 14, he made five combined tackles, deflected two passes, and returned an interception by Jared Goff for a 33-yard touchdown during a 42–14 road victory against the Los Angeles Rams.[40] Two weeks later, Jones recorded a season-high 13 combined tackles and broke up a pass during a 33–16 road victory against the Carolina Panthers.
Jones finished his rookie year with 108 combined tackles (75 solo), 11 pass deflections, three interceptions, and two touchdowns in 15 games and 13 starts.[41] He was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team.[42]
The Falcons finished atop in the NFC South with an 11–5 record and received a first-round bye in the playoffs. On January 14, 2017, Jones started his first NFL playoff game and made five combined tackles, broke up a pass, and intercepted Russell Wilson as they defeated the Seattle Seahawks in the NFC Divisional Round.[43] After defeating the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Championship,[44] the Falcons went on to face the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LI. On February 5, 2017, Jones recorded nine combined tackles and one forced fumble off of running back LeGarrette Blount during the Falcons' 28–34 overtime loss.[45]
2017 season
[edit]Jones entered training camp slated as the starting middle linebacker after Paul Worrilow departed for the Detroit Lions in free agency.
During Week 4 against the Buffalo Bills, Jones recorded eight combined tackles and made his first NFL sack on Tyrod Taylor during a 23–17 loss.[46] In Week 14, Jones recorded a season-high 13 combined tackles, broke up two passes, and intercepted Drew Brees in the end zone with less than 90 seconds left, sealing a 20–17 victory over the Saints on Thursday Night Football. His performance earned him NFC Defensive Player of the Week.[47][48] On December 24, 2017, Jones recorded ten combined tackles, defended one pass, and intercepted one pass by Drew Brees in a 23–13 road loss against the Saints.[49]
Jones led the team with 138 combined tackles (91 solo) in 2017 and also recorded ten pass deflections, three interceptions, and a sack in 16 games and starts.[50][51] The Falcons finished third in the NFC South with a 10–6 record and received a wild card playoff berth.[52] On January 6, 2018, Jones recorded ten combined tackles and defended a pass in a 26–13 road victory against the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC Wild Card Round.[53] They were eliminated from the playoffs the following week after losing 15–10 to the eventual Super Bowl LII Champions the Eagles in the Divisional Round.[54] On January 16, 2018, Jones was named to his first Pro Bowl as a replacement for injured Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly.[55]
2018 season
[edit]During the season opener against the Eagles, Jones recorded his first interception of the season off a pass thrown by Nick Foles. On September 11, 2018, Jones was placed on injured reserve with a foot injury.[56] He was activated off injured reserve on November 13, 2018.[57] In Week 15, in a 40–14 victory against the Arizona Cardinals, Jones recorded his second interception of the season, a 41-yard pick-six off a pass thrown by Josh Rosen.[58]
Jones finished the 2018 season with 53 combined tackles, one sack, one forced fumble, and two interceptions in six games and starts.[59]
2019 season
[edit]On July 17, 2019, Jones signed a four-year, $57 million contract extension with the Falcons with $34 million guaranteed.[60]
In the regular season-finale against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Jones recorded his first and only interception of the season off a pass thrown by Jameis Winston and returned it for a 27-yard touchdown on the first play of overtime to secure a 28–22 road victory.[61] Jones was named NFC Defensive Player of the Week for his performance.[62] With the interception return, he broke the Falcons franchise record for most interceptions returned for a touchdown, previously held by Deion Sanders and Kevin Mathis.[63] He finished the 2019 season with 110 total tackles, one interception, and five passes defended.[64]
2020 season
[edit]
In Week 6 against the Minnesota Vikings, Jones recorded his first interception of the season off a pass thrown by Kirk Cousins during the 40–23 win.[65] In Week 7 against the Detroit Lions, Jones recorded his first full sack of the season on Matthew Stafford during the 23–22 loss.[66] In Week 12 against the Las Vegas Raiders, Jones intercepted a pass thrown by Derek Carr and returned it 67 yards for his sixth career touchdown during the 43–6 win.[67] In Week 15 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Jones led the team with 10 tackles and sacked Tom Brady once during the 31–27 loss.[68] In the 2020 season, Jones had 4.5 sacks, 106 total tackles, two interceptions, six passes defended, and one forced fumble.[69]
2021 season
[edit]In Week 7, Jones registered 15 tackles, three tackles for loss, and a sack in a 30–28 win over the Miami Dolphins, earning NFC Defensive Player of the Week.[70] In the 2021 season, Jones had two sacks, 137 total tackles, six passes defended, and one forced fumble.[71]
2022 season
[edit]On September 1, 2022, Jones was placed on injured reserve.[72]
Cleveland Browns
[edit]On October 10, 2022, the Falcons traded Jones and a 2024 seventh-round pick to the Cleveland Browns for a 2024 sixth-round pick.[73][74] Following the deal, the Browns and Jones agreed to remove a year from his contract.[75] He was activated off injured reserve on October 22.[76] He finished the 2022 season with 2.5 sacks, 44 total tackles, one interception, three passes defended, and one forced fumble in 11 games and five starts.[77]
Carolina Panthers
[edit]On July 31, 2023, Jones signed with the Panthers.[78] He was released on August 29, 2023, then re-signed to the practice squad on September 11.[79][80] He was promoted to the active roster on September 20.[81]
Buffalo Bills
[edit]On May 3, 2024, Jones signed a one-year contract with the Buffalo Bills.[82] He was released on August 25.[83]
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
[edit]On December 10, 2024, Jones was signed to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers practice squad.[84] He signed a reserve/future contract on January 14, 2025.[85]
NFL career statistics
[edit]| Legend | |
|---|---|
| Led the league | |
| Bold | Career high |
Regular season
[edit]| Year | Team | Games | Tackles | Interceptions | Fumbles | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GP | GS | Cmb | Solo | Ast | Sck | PD | Int | Yds | Avg | Lng | TD | FF | FR | Yds | TD | ||
| 2016 | ATL | 15 | 13 | 108 | 75 | 33 | 0.0 | 11 | 3 | 165 | 55.0 | 90T | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2017 | ATL | 16 | 16 | 138 | 91 | 47 | 1.0 | 10 | 3 | 42 | 14.0 | 41 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2018 | ATL | 6 | 6 | 53 | 34 | 19 | 1.0 | 6 | 2 | 61 | 30.5 | 41 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2019 | ATL | 16 | 16 | 110 | 68 | 42 | 0.0 | 5 | 1 | 27 | 27.0 | 27T | 1 | 0 | 1 | 5 | 0 |
| 2020 | ATL | 16 | 16 | 106 | 73 | 33 | 4.5 | 6 | 2 | 84 | 42.0 | 67T | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| 2021 | ATL | 16 | 16 | 137 | 87 | 50 | 2.0 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 0.0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2022 | CLE | 11 | 5 | 44 | 25 | 19 | 2.5 | 3 | 1 | 5 | 5.0 | 5 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2023 | CAR | 13 | 3 | 35 | 22 | 13 | 1.0 | 6 | 1 | 0 | 0.0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2024 | TB | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0.0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2025 | TB | 17 | 0 | 29 | 16 | 13 | 0.0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0.0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Career | 128 | 91 | 761 | 492 | 269 | 12.0 | 53 | 13 | 384 | 29.5 | 90T | 5 | 5 | 2 | 5 | 0 | |
Postseason
[edit]| Year | Team | Games | Tackles | Interceptions | Fumbles | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GP | GS | Cmb | Solo | Ast | Sck | PD | Int | Yds | Avg | Lng | TD | FF | FR | Yds | TD | ||
| 2016 | ATL | 3 | 3 | 20 | 15 | 5 | 0.0 | 3 | 1 | 28 | 28.0 | 28 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2017 | ATL | 2 | 2 | 13 | 9 | 4 | 0.0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0.0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2024 | TB | 1 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0.0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0.0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Career | 6 | 5 | 35 | 25 | 10 | 0.0 | 5 | 1 | 28 | 28.0 | 28 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
Personal life
[edit]Jones' father named him after Hall of Fame cornerback Deion Sanders. He began being known as "War Daddy" during his stint at LSU.[35] Jones' nickname "Debo" was given to him by his father and is a portmanteau of Deion Sanders and Bo Jackson.[86]
References
[edit]- ^ Bagwill, Tom (January 25, 2017). "2012 Alumnus, Deion Jones, Will Represent Atlanta and Jesuit in Super Bowl LI". Jesuit High School of New Orleans. Retrieved August 9, 2023.
- ^ Walker, Rod (December 7, 2017). "Former Jesuit, LSU star Deion Jones dominates for Falcons against his hometown Saints". NOLA.com. Retrieved August 9, 2023.
- ^ "Deion Jones, 2012 Outside Linebacker, Louisiana State". Rivals.com. Retrieved August 9, 2023.
- ^ Bewers, James (September 1, 2015). "LSU linebacker Jones relishes opportunity to start". The Reveille. Retrieved August 9, 2023.
- ^ Dixon, Shea (February 3, 2012). "Linebackers headline 2012 class". 247Sports. Retrieved August 9, 2023.
- ^ Dellenger, Ross (August 16, 2015). "LSU linebackers Duke Riley, Deion Jones, Donnie Alexander take the special teams route to big roles". The Advocate. Retrieved August 9, 2023.
- ^ "Deion Jones 2012 Game Log". Sports Reference. Retrieved December 29, 2017.
- ^ "Deion Jones 2013 Game Log". Sports Reference. Retrieved December 29, 2017.
- ^ "Deion Jones 2014 Game Log". Sports Reference. Retrieved December 29, 2017.
- ^ Rosetta, Randy (October 4, 2015). "LSU senior Deion Jones took a slow path, but he's where he wants to be". NOLA.com. Retrieved August 9, 2023.
- ^ "Deion Jones 2015 Game Log". Sports Reference. Retrieved December 29, 2017.
- ^ Ching, David (November 25, 2015). "Patience paid off for LSU senior Deion Jones, a Butkus Award finalist". ESPN.com. Retrieved August 8, 2023.
- ^ Dellenger, Ross (December 21, 2015). "LSU's Vadal Alexander, Jalen Mills, Deion Jones heading to Senior Bowl". The Advocate. Retrieved August 9, 2023.| date=December 9, 2015}
- ^ Dellinger, Ross (February 5, 2016). "Deion Jones is hearing the 'tiny guy's anthem,' but that's not slowing him down". The Advocate. Retrieved February 22, 2018.
- ^ Mosqueda, Justis (February 5, 2016). "Breaking Down the Senior Bowl's Biggest Risers". Bleacher Report. Retrieved February 22, 2018.
- ^ Brady, James (February 28, 2016). "NFL Combine results 2016: Darron Lee impresses across all linebacker drills". SBNation.com. Retrieved February 22, 2018.
- ^ a b Brandt, Gil (March 15, 2016). "Deion Jones has 'off the charts' workout at LSU's pro day". NFL.com. Retrieved March 16, 2016.
- ^ Gowton, Brandon Lee (March 29, 2016). "2016 NFL Draft: LSU linebacker who ran 4.3 40-yard dash will visit the Eagles". Bleeding Green Nation. Retrieved February 22, 2018.
- ^ "UCLA linebacker Myles Jack works out for Saints, LSU linebacker Deion Jones visits". The Advocate. April 11, 2016. Retrieved August 9, 2023.
- ^ Wilson, Josh (March 29, 2016). "Colts to visit with LSU linebacker Deion Jones". Stampede Blue. Retrieved February 22, 2018.
- ^ Fucillo, David (March 29, 2016). "Full list of 49ers visits, workouts prior to 2016 NFL Draft". Niners Nation. Retrieved February 22, 2018.
- ^ Reuter, Chad (March 11, 2016). "Four-round mock 4.0: Cowboys land Joey Bosa, Derrick Henry". NFL.com. Retrieved March 16, 2016.
- ^ Ledyard, Jon (January 15, 2016). "2016 NFL Draft Scouting Report: LSU LB Deion Jones". draftwire.usatoday.com. Archived from the original on December 19, 2017. Retrieved February 22, 2018.
- ^ "Deion Jones, DS #6 OLB, LSU". nfldraftscout.com. Archived from the original on February 23, 2018. Retrieved February 22, 2018.
- ^ Burke, Chris (April 12, 2016). "2016 NFL Draft Positional Rankings". SI.com. Retrieved February 22, 2018.
- ^ Mayock, Mike (April 25, 2016). "Mayock's Top 100 Draft Prospect Rankings". NFL.com. Archived from the original on April 27, 2016. Retrieved February 22, 2018.
- ^ "2016 NFL Draft Profile: Deion Jones". NFL.com. Archived from the original on December 29, 2017.
- ^ "Deion Jones Draft and Combine Prospect Profile". NFL.com. Retrieved February 23, 2025.
- ^ "Deion Jones College Football Profile". DraftScout.com. Retrieved February 23, 2025.
- ^ "2016 NFL Draft Listing". Pro Football Reference. Retrieved May 17, 2023.
- ^ Ledbetter, D. Orlando (October 24, 2015). "Falcons select Deion Jones in the second round". The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Retrieved April 30, 2016.
- ^ "Falcons First Team to Sign Entire Draft Class". AtlantaFalcons.com. May 5, 2016. Archived from the original on July 29, 2017.
- ^ Rohan, Tim (June 13, 2017). "Deion Jones: Ideal Linebacker for the Modern NFL". Sports Illustrated. Retrieved August 9, 2023.
- ^ "Spotrac.com: Deion Jones contract". spotrac.com. Retrieved February 22, 2018.
- ^ a b Hummer, Steve (August 13, 2016). "Worrilow and the rookie: A timeless training camp tale". The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Retrieved February 22, 2018.[permanent dead link]
- ^ Choate, Dave (September 3, 2016). "The Falcons 53 man roster and projected depth chart after final cuts". thefalcoholic.com. Retrieved February 22, 2018.
- ^ "Atlanta Falcons at New Orleans Saints - September 26th, 2016". Pro Football Reference. Retrieved August 9, 2023.
- ^ McClure, Vaughn (September 27, 2016). "'Dream come true' for New Orleans native Deion Jones in Superdome debut". ESPN.com. Retrieved August 9, 2023.
- ^ McClure, Vaughn (October 7, 2016). "Jones (ankle) ruled out for Sunday's game at Denver". ESPN.com. Retrieved February 22, 2018.
- ^ "Atlanta Falcons at Los Angeles Rams – December 11th, 2016". Pro Football Reference. Retrieved December 29, 2017.
- ^ "Deion Jones 2016 Game Log". Pro Football Reference. Retrieved December 29, 2017.
- ^ "2016 NFL All-Rookie Team". Pro Football Reference. Retrieved August 3, 2024.
- ^ "Divisional Round - Seattle Seahawks at Atlanta Falcons - January 14th, 2017". Pro Football Reference. Retrieved August 9, 2023.
- ^ "NFC Championship - Green Bay Packers at Atlanta Falcons - January 22nd, 2017". Pro Football Reference. Retrieved August 9, 2023.
- ^ "Super Bowl LI – New England Patriots vs. Atlanta Falcons – February 5th, 2017". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved August 6, 2017.
- ^ "Buffalo Bills at Atlanta Falcons - October 1st, 2017". Pro Football Reference. Retrieved August 9, 2023.
- ^ Maya, Adam (December 13, 2017). "Ben Roethlisberger among NFL Players of the Week". NFL.com. Retrieved August 8, 2023.
- ^ "New Orleans Saints at Atlanta Falcons – December 7th, 2017". Pro Football Reference. Retrieved December 29, 2017.
- ^ "Atlanta Falcons at New Orleans Saints - December 24th, 2017". Pro Football Reference. Retrieved August 9, 2023.
- ^ "Deion Jones 2017 Game Log". Pro Football Reference. Retrieved August 9, 2023.
- ^ "2017 Atlanta Falcons Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees, Injury Reports". Pro Football Reference. Retrieved August 9, 2023.
- ^ "2017 NFL Standings & Team Stats". Pro Football Reference. Retrieved August 9, 2023.
- ^ "Wild Card - Atlanta Falcons at Los Angeles Rams - January 6th, 2018". Pro Football Reference. Retrieved August 9, 2023.
- ^ "Divisional Round - Atlanta Falcons at Philadelphia Eagles - January 13th, 2018". Pro Football Reference. Retrieved August 9, 2023.
- ^ Williams, Charean (January 16, 2018). "Deion Jones added to Pro Bowl roster". NBC Sports. Retrieved August 9, 2023.
- ^ McClure, Vaughn (September 11, 2018). "Falcons LB Jones to have procedure, goes on IR". ESPN.com. Retrieved August 9, 2023.
- ^ McFadden, Will (November 13, 2018). "Falcons activate Deion Jones from IR, waive Rees Odhiambo". AtlantaFalcons.com. Retrieved August 8, 2023.
- ^ "Arizona Cardinals at Atlanta Falcons – December 16th, 2018". Pro Football Reference. Retrieved December 3, 2020.
- ^ "Deion Jones 2018 Game Log". Pro Football Reference. Retrieved December 3, 2020.
- ^ Gordon, Grant (July 17, 2019). "Falcons sign Deion Jones to four-year, $57M extension". NFL.com. Retrieved July 18, 2019.
- ^ "Jones' INT return in OT lifts Falcons over Bucs 28–22". ESPN.com. Associated Press. December 29, 2019. Retrieved December 29, 2019.
- ^ Bergman, Jeremy (December 31, 2019). "Derrick Henry, Boston Scott among Players of the Week". NFL.com. Retrieved January 1, 2020.
- ^ Choate, Dave (December 31, 2019). "Deion Jones wins Defensive Player of the Week honors, now holds franchise record for interceptions returned for touchdowns". The Falcoholic. Retrieved December 31, 2019.
- ^ "Deion Jones 2019 Game Log". Pro Football Reference. Retrieved August 9, 2023.
- ^ "Atlanta Falcons at Minnesota Vikings – October 18th, 2020". Pro Football Reference. Retrieved October 22, 2020.
- ^ "Detroit Lions at Atlanta Falcons – October 25th, 2020". Pro Football Reference. Retrieved October 25, 2020.
- ^ "Las Vegas Raiders at Atlanta Falcons – November 29th, 2020". Pro Football Reference. Retrieved December 3, 2020.
- ^ "Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Atlanta Falcons – December 20th, 2020". Pro Football Reference. Retrieved December 20, 2020.
- ^ "Deion Jones 2020 Game Log". Pro Football Reference. Retrieved August 9, 2023.
- ^ "2021 NFL Week 7 Leaders & Scores". Pro Football Reference. Retrieved August 9, 2023.
- ^ "Deion Jones 2021 Game Log". Pro Football Reference. Retrieved August 9, 2023.
- ^ McElhaney, Tori (September 1, 2022). "Falcons place players on injured reserve, re-sign others". AtlantaFalcons.com. Retrieved August 8, 2023.
- ^ Gordon, Grant (October 9, 2022). "Falcons trade former Pro Bowl LB Deion Jones to Browns". NFL.com. Retrieved October 10, 2022.
- ^ Poisal, Anthony (October 10, 2022). "Browns acquire Pro Bowl LB Deion Jones in trade with Falcons". ClevelandBrowns.com. Retrieved October 10, 2022.
- ^ Mueller, Jared (October 17, 2022). "Deion Jones, Browns agreed to adjust contract when trade occurred". Dawgs By Nature. Retrieved August 9, 2023.
- ^ "Browns activate LB Deion Jones, elevate 2 players from practice squad". ClevelandBrowns.com. October 22, 2022. Retrieved August 8, 2023.
- ^ "Deion Jones 2022 Game Log". Pro Football Reference. Retrieved August 9, 2023.
- ^ Newton, David (July 31, 2023). "Panthers add veteran Deion Jones to bolster LB corps". ESPN.com. Retrieved August 8, 2023.
- ^ Gantt, Darin (August 29, 2023). "Panthers make moves en route to 53-man roster limit". Panthers.com. Retrieved February 22, 2025.
- ^ Rizzuti, Anthony (September 11, 2023). "Panthers sign LB Deion Jones to practice squad". Panthers Wire. USA Today. Retrieved February 22, 2025.
- ^ Gantt, Darin (September 20, 2023). "Panthers add Deion Jones to 53-man roster". Panthers.com. Retrieved February 22, 2025.
- ^ White, Alec; Glab, Maddy (May 3, 2024). "Bills announce three free agent signings to one-year deals". BuffaloBills.com. Retrieved May 3, 2024.
- ^ White, Alec (August 25, 2024). "Bills release 7 players, place 2 safeties on IR". BuffaloBills.com. Retrieved February 22, 2025.
- ^ Smith, Scott (December 10, 2024). "Bucs Sign LB Deion Jones to Practice Squad". Buccaneers.com. Retrieved February 22, 2025.
- ^ Smith, Scott (January 14, 2025). "Bucs Re-Sign 17 Practice Squad Players to 2025 Futures Deals". Buccaneers.com. Retrieved February 22, 2025.
- ^ "Deion Jones: Ready To Blaze His Own Trail". Senior Bowl. Retrieved August 9, 2023.
External links
[edit]
- Deion Jones on Twitter
- Career statistics from ESPN · Yahoo Sports · Pro Football Reference
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers bio
- LSU Tigers bio Archived December 22, 2015, at the Wayback Machine
Deion Jones
View on GrokipediaEarly years
Early life and family
Deion Jones was born on November 4, 1994, in New Orleans, Louisiana.[1][3] He was raised by his parents, Cal Jones, a longtime cab driver in New Orleans, and Tahonas Jones, a Subway restaurant manager; he also has a sister named Cassidy.[9][10][3] His father named him after Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, a former Atlanta Falcons cornerback, reflecting the family's early affinity for the sport.[11][5] Jones' parents encouraged his physical agility through football from a young age, channeling his energy in games where he often played against older children alongside friends.[12] At age 10, Jones and his family faced the devastation of Hurricane Katrina in August 2005, evacuating New Orleans two days before the storm made landfall.[13][14] The family, initially planning a brief trip, spent four hours driving to Mississippi amid widespread evacuations, but the hurricane damaged their home and forced a nomadic existence across states including Texas for about seven months.[15][16] Tragically, Jones lost his grandmother Montrell during the ordeal, as she had sheltered in the Superdome before the family reconnected with her afterward.[11][16] Growing up in New Orleans' football-centric culture further immersed Jones in the sport through community and familial influences before his eventual enrollment at Jesuit High School.[12]High school career
Deion Jones attended Jesuit High School, a Catholic college-preparatory institution in New Orleans, Louisiana, where the curriculum balanced rigorous academics with opportunities for athletic development. Jones emerged as a standout on the football team, serving as a three-year starter at middle linebacker. During his senior year in 2011, he amassed 179 tackles, eight sacks, three interceptions, five forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery, performances that earned him the Louisiana Sports Writers Association (LSWA) Class 5A Outstanding Defensive Player award and first-team All-State honors.[3] He also garnered All-Metro recognition from the Times-Picayune for the second straight season, highlighting his leadership in anchoring Jesuit's defense en route to a LHSAA Class 5A quarterfinal appearance.[17] Beyond football, Jones participated in basketball as a guard, contributing to the Blue Jays' efforts in the Catholic League during his high school tenure.[18] Jesuit's environment fostered well-rounded student-athletes, enabling Jones to pursue excellence in multiple domains while preparing for higher education.College career
Early college years (2012–2013)
Deion Jones committed to Louisiana State University (LSU) in 2012 after a standout high school career at Ramsay High School in Alabama, where he was rated as a three-star recruit. He enrolled at LSU that fall, joining the Tigers' football program as a linebacker prospect under head coach Les Miles. As a freshman in the 2012 season, Jones appeared in 13 games with no starts, recording 23 total tackles and 3.0 tackles for loss.[3] In his sophomore year of 2013, Jones served in a backup linebacker role, providing depth on defense and special teams. He appeared in 13 games, starting none, and recorded 15 total tackles and 1.0 tackle for loss, contributing to LSU's 10-3 overall record and a win in the Outback Bowl over Iowa. Under Les Miles' coaching staff, Jones benefited from an emphasis on physical preparation and learning complex defensive alignments, which helped him gain valuable experience against SEC competition.[3] During his early college years at LSU, Jones majored in kinesiology.[19]Later college years (2014–2015)
In his junior year of 2014, Jones transitioned into a more prominent role at outside linebacker for LSU, appearing in all 13 games with 1 start. He contributed 27 total tackles and 3.5 tackles for loss throughout the season. His performance came in the Music City Bowl loss to Notre Dame.[3] Building on his experience from earlier years, Jones emerged as a breakout starter in 2015, serving as one of four permanent team captains and leading the Tigers' defense. He topped the team with 100 tackles and 13.5 tackles for loss, while adding five sacks and two interceptions, one of which he returned 26 yards for a touchdown against Eastern Michigan. Notable games included double-digit tackles against Texas A&M (11, with an interception), Western Kentucky (10), Florida (10), Auburn (10), South Carolina (10), and Mississippi State (10). In the Texas Bowl win over Texas Tech, he added eight tackles. Jones earned Second-Team All-SEC honors from both the Associated Press and conference coaches, along with the team's defensive MVP award (shared with Jamal Adams), and was named a Butkus Award finalist as one of the nation's top linebackers.[3][20][21] During his time at LSU, Jones earned the nickname "War Daddy" from fans and teammates for his intense on-field presence and leadership qualities. His senior season performance generated significant pre-draft attention, including an invitation to the 2016 Senior Bowl, where he showcased his skills for NFL scouts and solidified early projections as a second-round draft prospect.[22][23]Professional career
Pre-draft process
Following a strong senior season at LSU in 2015, during which Jones recorded 102 tackles, 3.5 sacks, and three interceptions, he entered the NFL pre-draft process as a versatile linebacker prospect noted for his speed and coverage skills.[24] At the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, Jones stood 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighed 222 pounds. He clocked a 4.59-second 40-yard dash, achieved a 33-inch vertical jump, and completed 18 repetitions of the 225-pound bench press, showcasing solid athletic traits for his position despite not participating in all drills.[25][26] Later, at LSU's pro day on March 15, 2016, Jones enhanced his stock by running a 4.38-second 40-yard dash, leaping to a 35.5-inch vertical, and posting a 4.26-second 20-yard shuttle, metrics that highlighted his explosiveness and suitability as a coverage-oriented linebacker.[27] Analysts projected Jones as a mid-round talent, typically in the second round (top 60 overall), due to his athletic versatility in both run support and pass defense. ESPN ranked him among their top 100 prospects, while NFL Network's Mike Mayock placed him tied for fifth among outside linebackers in his positional rankings.[28][29] Jones participated in pre-draft interviews and visits with multiple teams, including a formal visit to the Philadelphia Eagles and meetings with the Atlanta Falcons.[30] Represented by agent Drew Rosenhaus of Rosenhaus Sports, Jones anticipated signing a standard four-year rookie contract aligned with second-round slot values, estimated at approximately $5.2 million total with a signing bonus around $2 million.[31][32]Atlanta Falcons (2016–2021)
The Atlanta Falcons selected linebacker Deion Jones in the second round (52nd overall) of the 2016 NFL Draft after trading up from the Houston Texans.[33] As a rookie, Jones quickly emerged as a starter at weakside linebacker, appearing in 15 games with 13 starts and recording 108 combined tackles, three interceptions (two returned for touchdowns), and 11 pass deflections.[4] His speed and coverage skills were highlighted by a 90-yard interception return for a touchdown against the New Orleans Saints in Week 3.[34] In 2017, under new defensive coordinator Marquand Manuel, Jones transitioned to middle linebacker and earned his first Pro Bowl selection after leading the team with 138 combined tackles, three interceptions, and one sack.[4][35] He contributed significantly to the Falcons' NFC Championship win, recording nine tackles and one forced fumble in Super Bowl LI against the New England Patriots, though Atlanta fell 34-28 in overtime.[36] Jones signed a four-year rookie contract worth approximately $4.55 million, including a $1.46 million signing bonus.[37] The 2018 season was derailed by a foot injury sustained in Week 1, limiting Jones to six games with 53 tackles and two interceptions before being placed on injured reserve.[4][38] He rebounded in 2019, starting all 16 games with 110 tackles and one interception, including a game-sealing pick in overtime against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.[4] Jones solidified his role as a core defender from 2019 to 2021, amassing 353 combined tackles across 48 starts, four interceptions (one returned 67 yards for a touchdown against the Las Vegas Raiders in 2020), and 6.5 sacks.[4][39] In July 2019, prior to the 2019 season, he agreed to a four-year, $57 million contract extension with $28.5 million guaranteed, securing his future with the Falcons through 2023.[40] Jones' tenure ended after the 2022 season began, as the Falcons traded him to the Cleveland Browns on October 10, 2022, in exchange for a 2024 sixth-round pick and sending a 2024 seventh-round pick.[41]Cleveland Browns (2022)
On October 10, 2022, the Cleveland Browns acquired linebacker Deion Jones from the Atlanta Falcons in exchange for a 2024 sixth-round draft pick, with the Falcons sending back a 2024 seventh-round pick as part of the deal.[41] As a condition of the trade, the Browns and Jones mutually agreed to void the 2023 option year of his contract, positioning him as a one-year rental player focused on providing immediate depth for the 2022 season.[42] Jones, a 2017 Pro Bowl selection during his tenure with Atlanta, brought six years of NFL experience but arrived after missing the first five games due to shoulder surgery, requiring a swift adjustment to Cleveland's defensive system.[43] Under head coach Kevin Stefanski and defensive coordinator Joe Woods, Jones integrated into the Browns' 3-4 base defense as a versatile depth piece behind starters Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah and Anthony Walker Jr., often rotating in for run support and coverage duties.[44] He appeared in all 11 of Cleveland's remaining regular-season games, starting five, and contributed 44 total tackles (25 solo), 2.5 sacks, one interception, and three passes defended—metrics that highlighted his role in bolstering a linebacker group hampered by injuries.[45] Despite these contributions, Jones faced adaptation challenges post-trade, including learning new schemes and regaining full speed from his injury, as he worked to fill gaps in a unit that ranked 22nd in total defense league-wide.[46] The Browns concluded the 2022 season with a 7-10 record, finishing fourth in the AFC North and out of playoff contention amid broader defensive inconsistencies.[47] Jones' veteran presence from his Falcons days offered stability during Cleveland's mid-season push, though his limited snaps reflected the team's emphasis on younger talent. Following the campaign, he entered unrestricted free agency on March 15, 2023.Carolina Panthers (2023)
On August 1, 2023, Deion Jones signed a one-year contract worth $1.255 million with the Carolina Panthers, providing veteran depth at linebacker following a workout with the team.[48][49] He was released on August 29 during final roster cuts but re-signed to the practice squad on September 11 and elevated to the active roster on September 20 amid injuries to starters like Shaq Thompson.[50] During the 2023 season, Jones appeared in 13 games with three starts, recording 35 tackles (22 solo), one sack, six pass deflections, and one forced fumble, with no interceptions.[4] His contributions came primarily in a rotational defensive role within the Panthers' 3-4 scheme under defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero, alongside limited special teams duties totaling just six snaps.[51][52] Coming off a depth stint with the Cleveland Browns in 2022, Jones helped stabilize the linebacker group during Carolina's rebuild. Jones' playing time was constrained by the emergence of younger talent such as Frankie Luvu and Shaq Thompson, averaging only 24 defensive snaps per game despite the team's league-worst 2-15 record under head coach Frank Reich, who was fired after an 1-10 start with special teams coordinator Chris Tabor serving as interim thereafter.[51][53][54] The Panthers released Jones on March 13, 2024, as he entered unrestricted free agency.[37]Buffalo Bills (2024)
Following his release from the Carolina Panthers after the 2023 season, Deion Jones signed a one-year contract worth $1.21 million with the Buffalo Bills on May 3, 2024.[55][37] During training camp and the preseason, Jones competed for a depth linebacker role on a Bills defense that featured established starters like Matt Milano and Terrel Bernard, alongside emerging undrafted players such as Joe Andreessen, who impressed with strong performances and secured a roster spot.[56][57] Jones saw limited action in the three exhibition games, recording 11 total tackles (six solo) across 45 defensive snaps, primarily in sub-packages.[58] On August 25, 2024, the Bills released Jones as part of their final roster cuts to reach the 53-player limit, ending his tenure without any regular-season appearances.[59][60] This move highlighted the Bills' emphasis on younger, cost-controlled talent at linebacker amid injuries and depth needs.[61]Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2024–present)
On December 10, 2024, following his release from the Buffalo Bills during training camp, Deion Jones signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' practice squad amid injuries at the linebacker position.[62][37] He was elevated to the active roster for two games late in the 2024 season, appearing in minimal snaps primarily on special teams.[63][64] Jones signed a reserve/future contract with the Buccaneers on January 14, 2025, securing his spot on the 2025 roster.[37] Under defensive coordinator Todd Bowles, he has served as a depth linebacker and special teams contributor through the first nine games of the 2025 season, recording 16 total tackles (10 solo) with no sacks or interceptions, as of November 15, 2025.[4] His contract for 2025 includes a base salary of $1.255 million, supplemented by a workout bonus.[48] As a veteran in Tampa Bay's established defense, Jones provides rotational depth with potential for an expanded role depending on injuries and performance.[2]NFL career statistics
Regular season
Deion Jones has appeared in 120 regular-season games over his NFL career from 2016 to 2025, accumulating 748 total tackles (486 solo and 262 assisted), 12.0 sacks, 13 interceptions for 384 return yards and 5 touchdowns, and 5 forced fumbles.[4] The following table provides a year-by-year breakdown of his regular-season defensive statistics:| Year | Team | G | GS | Comb | Solo | Ast | Sk | Int | Int Yds | Int TD | Long | FF | FR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | ATL | 15 | 13 | 108 | 75 | 33 | 0.0 | 3 | 165 | 2 | 90 | 1 | 0 |
| 2017 | ATL | 16 | 16 | 138 | 91 | 47 | 1.0 | 3 | 42 | 0 | 41 | 0 | 0 |
| 2018 | ATL | 6 | 6 | 53 | 34 | 19 | 1.0 | 2 | 61 | 1 | 41 | 1 | 0 |
| 2019 | ATL | 16 | 16 | 110 | 68 | 42 | 0.0 | 1 | 27 | 1 | 27 | 0 | 1 |
| 2020 | ATL | 16 | 16 | 106 | 73 | 33 | 4.5 | 2 | 84 | 1 | 67 | 1 | 1 |
| 2021 | ATL | 16 | 16 | 137 | 87 | 50 | 2.0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| 2022 | CLE | 11 | 5 | 44 | 25 | 19 | 2.5 | 1 | 5 | 0 | 5 | 1 | 0 |
| 2023 | CAR | 13 | 3 | 35 | 22 | 13 | 1.0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2024 | TAM | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0.0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2025 | TAM | 9 | 0 | 16 | 10 | 6 | 0.0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Career Totals | 120 | 91 | 748 | 486 | 262 | 12.0 | 13 | 384 | 5 | 90 | 5 | 2 |
Postseason
Deion Jones made his postseason debut with the Atlanta Falcons in the 2016 NFC Wild Card round against the Seattle Seahawks on January 8, 2017, contributing to a 36-20 victory with defensive snaps and tackles as part of the unit that limited Seattle to 231 total yards. In the subsequent Divisional round rematch against the Seahawks on January 14, 2017, Jones recorded a game-sealing interception late in the fourth quarter, deflecting and securing a pass intended for tight end Luke Willson at the Falcons' 43-yard line to preserve a 36-20 win and advance Atlanta to the NFC Championship. He started all four playoff games that postseason, including the NFC Championship victory over the Green Bay Packers and Super Bowl LI against the New England Patriots, where he tallied a team-high 9 tackles (7 solo) and forced a fumble in the 34-28 overtime loss. In the 2017 postseason, Jones appeared in two games for the Falcons, starting both and registering 13 combined tackles, including a tackle for loss, as Atlanta fell to the Philadelphia Eagles in the Divisional round.[65] Across his six playoff appearances with the Falcons, Jones amassed 35 combined tackles (25 solo, 10 assisted), 1 interception, and 5 pass deflections, starting all contests and logging 366 defensive snaps.[66] His contributions underscored his role as a key inside linebacker in Atlanta's deep 2016 run, highlighted by the pivotal interception that helped propel the team to the Super Bowl.| Year | Team | Games | Starts | Combined Tackles | Solo | Assisted | Sacks | Interceptions | Pass Deflections |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | ATL | 4 | 4 | 22 | 17 | 5 | 0 | 1 | 3 |
| 2017 | ATL | 2 | 2 | 13 | 8 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| 2024 | TAM | 1 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| Total | 7 | 6 | 37 | 26 | 11 | 0 | 1 | 6 |