Atlanta Falcons 50: Julio Jones Top 5 Performances – Honorable Mentions
Today, we continue our Falcons 50 countdown with our next mini-series written by staff writer Eric Robinson. Over the next six days, he will be counting down Julio Jones’ top-5 performances. There are so many, we start today with some honorable mentions.
You can find the full list of Falcons 50 posts here.
Most if not all Atlanta Falcons are pretty aware of the greatness that is WR Julio Jones. Drafted sixth overall in the 2011 NFL draft, Jones has been nothing short of spectacular for the Falcons.
The 6’3 220-pound former Alabama star has demonstrated toughness, playmaking ability, as well as the grit that is warranted from a player drafted that high.
In our “Falcons 50” countdown, I have the distinct honor to provide a countdown of Julio’s greatest performances. Before we get started I would like to give a few honorable mention performances that I believe fell short of making the countdown.
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November 6, 2011: @ Indianapolis Colts – 3 catches, 131 yards, 2 TDs
Jones rookie season had plenty of ups however this game in particular was highlighted by Jones two long touchdowns, the absolutely impressive speed that was displayed as he pulled away from the Colts defense on one play and the awareness to catch in between more than one defender on the other.
Another nugget from this game as we also saw Jones show off his rushing skills as he also had two carries for a total of 33 yards. Granted, the Colts defense were not much competition however we saw how truly dominate Julio could be halfway through his rookie season.
Notably, Jones was just getting back to action after a hamstring injury but showed no effects during the game.
October 28, 2012: @ Philadelphia Eagles – 5 catches, 123 yards, 1 TD
Jones once again took center stage as he helped the Falcons knock off the Eagles. This game showcased Julio torching the Eagles defense, which also including beating CB Nnamdi Asomugha for a 63-yard score to put the Falcons up 21-7.
The Falcons as a team entered the game as three point underdogs despite being at .500 before the game and the Falcons being undefeated at 6-0.
November 25, 2012: @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers – 6 catches, 147 yards, 1 TD
The game was most notably known for Matt Ryan’s fourth comeback. However, the comeback was helped by the play of Julio.
Jones’s six catches for 147 yards and his 80 yard touchdown put the Falcons up in the third. Jones’ 147 yards was his fourth 100-yard game of the season as he was well on his way to a 1,000-yard season.
As you can see, Jones has had a fair share of impressive and game-changing performances so far in his still-young career.
These honorable mention performances are just from his first two years in the league alone. We still have yet to touch on the career year of this past season which saw him post numbers of 104 receptions, 1,593 yards, and six touchdowns.
Then there was the 2013 season where he posted 580 yards in just five games before shutting it down due to a season ending injury. In other words, brace yourself for the beast that is Julio Jones. Stay tuned.