Marvin Jones released by Lions after announcing decision to step away

Nov 28, 2021; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Marvin Jones Jr. (11) talks with a teammate before the game against the Atlanta Falcons at TIAA Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-USA TODAY Sports

Marvin Jones Jr. has been released by the Detroit Lions after announcing his decision to step away from football.

Jones issued a statement on Tuesday announcing that he is “stepping away from the team to take care of personal family matters.” He was then released by the Lions.

“I just want to say that I have so much love and respect for the Ford Family, the city of Detroit, my teammates and coaches. To be brief, I am stepping away from the team to take care of personal family matters,” the statement read. “Although this was no easy decision, I cannot be the person/player that I need to be for this team as well as tend to my family from afar. This organization has been amazing showing love and support for myself and my family over the years and this time is no different. For that I am appreciative. To my brothers and coaches, I will be rooting for you every step of the way! This is the year! Go get it!!! Love and respect to ALL!”

Jones signed a 1-year, $3 million deal to return to the Lions last offseason. The 33-year-old played for Detroit from 2016-2020 before leaving in free agency and playing two seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Jones led the Lions in receiving twice during his first stint with the team. He had a career-best 1,101 receiving yards and 9 touchdowns in 2017. He led Detroit in receiving again in 2020 with 978 receiving yards and 9 touchdowns.

This season, Jones had just 5 catches for 35 yards in 6 games. He was still a solid depth piece for the 5-2 Lions, so they may have to make some minor adjustments going forward.