Former Alabama WR Julio Jones signs enormous new contract
Julio Jones makes it look easy.
Always has, dating back to his days as a five-star recruit from Foley (Ala.) High School.
Jones, whom the Atlanta Falcons mortgaged five draft picks to select at No. 6 overall in 2011, will remain a staple of the team’s offense as it transitions toward a new stadium.
The former Alabama standout just signed a new five-year, $71.25 million contract, according to ESPN. The contract reportedly includes $47.5 million in guaranteed money, a huge sum.
Prayers answered! I get to keep living, working & playing in the city I love, ATL! Thank you Mr. Blank! #Blessed #Falcons #RiseUp #Family
— Julio Jones (@juliojones_11) August 30, 2015
The 26-year-old is a two-time Pro Bowl selection. His contract barely eclipses the five-year, $70 million deals granted to Dallas Cowboys receiver Dez Bryant and Denver Broncos receiver Demaryius Thomas, again according to ESPN.
Jones set a Falcons record with 1,593 receiving yards in 2014 despite missing one game due to injury.
Amari Cooper, the No. 4 overall pick of the Oakland Raiders, eclipsed several of Jones’ Alabama records last season. The two teams are not scheduled to meet on the field during the regular season.