Former Atlanta Falcons receiver Julio Jones still a free agent

Former Atlanta Falcons receiver Julio Jones is still one of the most surprising current free agents left with rosters filling out and attention shifting to camps and pre-season. Despite coming off of the worst year of his career it is surprising Julio hasn’t found the right fit in free agency. There seems to be some expectation Jones will end up signing with a team capable of getting him a ring as he is in what are likely the final years of his career.

Due to Matt Ryan, there will be some speculation as to whether the Colts could be a fit for Jones? Aside from the Colts the Packers, Bucs, Chiefs, Ravens, and 49ers are all potential contenders who could fit Julio Jones into their offense.

It is worth noting the Falcons still have well over $10 million in cap space and were the last location Jones enjoyed success. After a long season with the Titans, there is the off chance he would be willing to return to Atlanta for the right contract. The Falcons should at least offer Jones a fair contract to return to the Falcons though it is unlikely he would consider the offer.

Jones remaining in free agency seems more likely a choice for a veteran player who has dealt with a lot of injuries. It wouldn’t be surprising to see Jones wait to sign with a team until pre-season is well underway limiting his off-season and giving his body time to heal and prepare for the season.

In Julio’s last two years he has managed to play only nineteen games combined for the Falcons and Titans missing 14-games due to injuries. When you play the receiver position at the level of physicality Julio has brought to every snap in his career it is bound to take a toll on even the best players.

While Julio returning to Atlanta would be a great story and offer the Falcons a much-needed veteran presence it is more likely Jones ends up joining a contending team in a lesser role. A team who isn’t going to count on Jones to be on the field for every important down one who has other primary targets giving Jones a chance to rebound from his struggles last season.

Julio waiting to sign until the pre-season and picking a contending team that is the best fit for him is a great move one setting the receiver up for a bounceback season. One Atlanta Falcons fans will be enjoying from afar.