Despite a lot of optimism over the offseason, Week 1 looms with no new contract for Atlanta Falcons receiver Julio Jones.
Jones, who would make $9.4 million this season on his current deal, has sought a new contract, and the Falcons have repeatedly said that they’re willing to give it to him. However, no deal has been reached, creating a potential distraction ahead of the team’s season opener.
Coach Dan Quinn stated Wednesday that he understands the interest in a Jones extension, but said it has not become an issue within the building.
#Falcons coach Dan Quinn says he understands Julio Jones’ contract is a big topic outside the building. “There’s fantasy points out there. There’s a lot going on.” But says Julio has not let it become a distraction in the building.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) September 4, 2019
It isn’t clear whether Jones would sit out games if nothing is signed by the weekend. He reported to training camp and has said he trusts the organization’s word, so it may not be a situation where he must be signed if the team wants to see him play. Atlanta needs him, as the 30-year-old is coming off a season in which he led the NFL with 1,677 receiving yards.
The team’s GM has maintained that a Jones deal will get done for some time now. The clock is ticking, but that optimism doesn’t appear to have waned.
