Falcons announce Julio Jones will skip minicamp

Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones is the latest player to skip mandatory minicamp in search of a new contract.

The Falcons made the announcement via their official website, stating they’ve had “productive and constructive” talks with the player.

“We have been in contact with Julio and his representation,” general manager Thomas Dimitroff said in the statement. “We will not discuss those conversations publicly except to say we feel they have been productive and constructive. We understand the concerns and thoughts from their perspective. Although not ideal, Julio informed us today he would not be attending mini-camp.

“We have much respect for him and what he means to our team, our city and our fans.”

The Falcons had expected Jones at minicamp as recently as late May, so this may come as a bit of a surprise. That said, it sounds like everyone is working toward a solution.