ATLANTA, GA – DECEMBER 7: Julio Jones #11 of the Atlanta Falcons runs with a catch against the New Orleans Saints at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 7, 2017 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images)
Julio Jones just signed for big money with the Atlanta Falcons two years ago.
In fact, his deal had more guaranteed money than the monster deal Todd Gurley signed this week with the Rams. Now, with three years left on his contract he wants the Falcons to tear it up and give him a new one. He’s “only” making $10 million dollars this year.
Admittedly, those are low wages for a guy who is one of the top two receivers in the league. The market does appear to be passing him by. But people, Julio included, seem to forget about his bonus money and guaranteed money paid on the front end. People also get hung up on “lower” salaries. But Tom Brady’s 2018 salary is “only” $14 million this year.
Again, with bonuses and guarantees, his average income is much higher.
The real story with Jones, however is the fact he has had numerous nagging injuries and his touchdown production has been anemic the past two seasons. He turns 30 next year and after next season the Falcons can cut him for a paltry $2.5 million. THAT’S what he’s really anxious about.
Some advice for Jones: Just produce this year and everything will work out in his favor…and pray Calvin Ridley can’t catch.
This article was written By Craig Shemon
