Deion Jones
{{Short description|American football player (born 1994)}}
{{Use American English|date=September 2024}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=March 2025}}
{{Infobox NFL biography
| name = Deion Jones
| image = Deion Jones Falcons-WFT October 2021 (cropped).jpg
| image_size =
| alt =
| caption = Jones with the Atlanta Falcons in 2021
| current_team = Tampa Bay Buccaneers
| number = 45
| position = Linebacker
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1994|11|4}}
| birth_place = New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S.
| death_date =
| death_place =
| height_ft = 6
| height_in = 1
| weight_lbs = 222
| high_school = Jesuit
(New Orleans, Louisiana)
| college = LSU (2012–2015)
| draftyear = 2016
| draftround = 2
| draftpick = 52
| pastteams =
- Atlanta Falcons ({{NFL Year|2016|2022}})
- Cleveland Browns ({{NFL Year|2022}})
- Carolina Panthers ({{NFL Year|2023}})
- Buffalo Bills ({{NFL Year|2024}})*
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers ({{NFL Year|2024}}–present)
| status = Active
| highlights =
| statseason = 2024
| statweek =
| statlabel1 = Total tackles
| statvalue1 = 732
| statlabel2 = Sacks
| statvalue2 = 12.0
| statlabel3 = Forced fumbles
| statvalue3 = 5
| statlabel4 = Fumble recoveries
| statvalue4 = 2
| statlabel5 = Pass deflections
| statvalue5 = 53
| statlabel6 = Interceptions
| statvalue6 = 13
| statlabel7 = Defensive touchdowns
| statvalue7 = 5
| pfr = JoneDe01
}}
Deion Jones (born November 4, 1994) is an American professional football linebacker for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the LSU Tigers, and was selected by Atlanta Falcons in the second round of the 2016 NFL draft.
Early life
Jones attended Jesuit High School in New Orleans, Louisiana, where he was a three-year starter at middle linebacker.{{Cite web |last=Bagwill |first=Tom |date=January 25, 2017 |title=2012 Alumnus, Deion Jones, Will Represent Atlanta and Jesuit in Super Bowl LI |url=https://www.jesuitnola.org/2017/01/25/2012-alumnus-deion-jones-will-represent-atlanta-and-jesuit-in-super-bowl-li/ |access-date=August 9, 2023 |website=Jesuit High School of New Orleans |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=Walker |first=Rod |date=December 7, 2017 |title=Former Jesuit, LSU star Deion Jones dominates for Falcons against his hometown Saints |url=https://www.nola.com/sports/saints/former-jesuit-lsu-star-deion-jones-dominates-for-falcons-against-his-hometown-saints/article_fd37949c-3dd1-575e-98dc-37d5a99632e5.html |access-date=August 9, 2023 |website=NOLA.com |language=en}} As a senior, he had 179 tackles, eight sacks, and three interceptions, helping Jesuit to the LHSAA Class 5A quarterfinals, where the Blue Jays lost to Carencro.{{citation needed|date=August 2023}}
Regarded as a three-star recruit by Rivals.com, Jones was ranked as the No. 31 outside linebacker prospect in the class of 2012.{{Cite web |title=Deion Jones, 2012 Outside Linebacker, Louisiana State |url=https://rivals.com/content/athletes/deion-jones-24263?view=pv |access-date=August 9, 2023 |website=Rivals.com |language=en-US}} Recruited by Corey Raymond, Jones originally committed to Nebraska in August 2011,{{Cite web |last=Bewers |first=James |date=September 1, 2015 |title=LSU linebacker Jones relishes opportunity to start |url=https://www.lsureveille.com/daily/lsu-linebacker-jones-relishes-opportunity-to-start/article_63fa4fba-511e-11e5-9e5d-97fc37df15fa.html |access-date=August 9, 2023 |website=The Reveille |language=en}} but changed his commitment to Louisiana State after receiving a late offer in December 2011.{{Cite web |last=Dixon |first=Shea |date=February 3, 2012 |title=Linebackers headline 2012 class |url=https://247sports.com/college/lsu/article/linebackers-headline-2012-class-104875681/ |access-date=August 9, 2023 |website=247Sports |language=en}}
College career
Under head coach Les Miles, Jones was a backup his first three years at LSU, appearing in 39 games with one start.{{Cite web |last=Dellenger |first=Ross |date=August 16, 2015 |title=LSU linebackers Duke Riley, Deion Jones, Donnie Alexander take the special teams route to big roles |url=https://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/sports/lsu/lsu-linebackers-duke-riley-deion-jones-donnie-alexander-take-the-special-teams-route-to-big/article_26cf032e-4d6a-59ad-815f-55169ff3d8be.html |access-date=August 9, 2023 |website=The Advocate |language=en}} As a freshman in 2012, he recorded 23 total tackles (three tackles-for-loss).{{Cite web |title=Deion Jones 2012 Game Log |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/deion-jones-1/gamelog/2012/ |access-date=December 29, 2017 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} As a sophomore in 2013, he recorded 15 total tackles (one tackle-for-loss).{{Cite web |title=Deion Jones 2013 Game Log |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/deion-jones-1/gamelog/2013/ |access-date=December 29, 2017 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} As a junior in 2014, he recorded 26 total tackles (3.5 tackles-for-loss), one pass defended, and one --fumble recovery.{{Cite web |title=Deion Jones 2014 Game Log |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/deion-jones-1/gamelog/2014/ |access-date=December 29, 2017 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} As a senior in 2015, he became a starter for the first time.{{Cite web |last=Rosetta |first=Randy |date=October 4, 2015 |title=LSU senior Deion Jones took a slow path, but he's where he wants to be |url=https://www.nola.com/sports/lsu-senior-deion-jones-took-a-slow-path-but-hes-where-he-wants-to-be/article_39fcd478-a871-5b9b-b30d-072559c3f7cc.html |access-date=August 9, 2023 |website=NOLA.com |language=en}} In his final collegiate season, he recorded 100 total tackles (13.5 tackles-for-loss), five sacks, two interceptions, one pick-six, three passes defended, and one forced fumble.{{Cite web |title=Deion Jones 2015 Game Log |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/deion-jones-1/gamelog/2015/ |access-date=December 29, 2017 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} He was a finalist for the Butkus Award.{{Cite web |last=Ching |first=David |date=November 25, 2015 |title=Patience paid off for LSU senior Deion Jones, a Butkus Award finalist |url=https://www.espn.com/blog/sec/post/_/id/111095/patience-paid-off-for-lsu-senior-deion-jones-a-butkus-award-finalist |access-date=August 8, 2023 |website=ESPN.com}}
Professional career
=Pre-draft=
On December 8, 2015, it was announced that Jones had accepted his invitation to play in the 2016 Senior Bowl.{{Cite web |last=Dellenger |first=Ross |date=December 21, 2015 |title=LSU's Vadal Alexander, Jalen Mills, Deion Jones heading to Senior Bowl |url=https://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/sports/lsu/lsus-vadal-alexander-jalen-mills-deion-jones-heading-to-senior-bowl/article_2bdae0f9-176f-536a-a63d-8fd70c2d046a.html |access-date=August 9, 2023 |website=The Advocate |language=en}}| date=December 9, 2015} On January 30, 2016, Jones played in the Reese's Senior Bowl and recorded six combined tackles as part of Jacksonville Jaguars' head coach Gus Bradley's South team that defeated the North 27–16.{{Cite web |last=Dellinger |first=Ross |date=February 5, 2016 |title=Deion Jones is hearing the 'tiny guy's anthem,' but that's not slowing him down |url=http://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/sports/lsu/article_77307cb8-b02a-5309-9ffa-98e5dc6d44fe.html |access-date=February 22, 2018 |website=The Advocate}} He was limited to 26 snaps, but was able to perform well enough throughout the week to impress scouts and coaches.{{Cite web |last=Mosqueda |first=Justis |date=February 5, 2016 |title=Breaking Down the Senior Bowl's Biggest Risers |url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2613160-breaking-down-the-senior-bowls-biggest-risers |access-date=February 22, 2018 |website=Bleacher Report}} Jones was one of 34 collegiate linebackers to attend the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, Indiana, and completed most of the drills, but opted to skip the three-cone drill, short shuttle, and bench press. Jones finished fourth among all participating linebackers in the 40-yard dash, eighth in the vertical jump, and finished tenth in the broad jump.{{Cite web |last=Brady |first=James |date=February 28, 2016 |title=NFL Combine results 2016: Darron Lee impresses across all linebacker drills |url=https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2016/2/28/11130444/2016-nfl-combine-results-linebackers-darron-lee |access-date=February 22, 2018 |website=SBNation.com}}
On March 14, 2016, Jones attended LSU's pro day and chose to perform positional drills and all of the combine drills, but opted to stand on his broad jump performance. All together, he performed the 40-yard dash (4.38s), 20-yard dash (2.52s), 10-yard dash (1.52s), bench press (18 reps), vertical jump ({{frac|35|1|2}}"), short shuttle (4.26s), and three-cone drill (7.13s). He had an excellent overall performance in the combine drills and positional drills and his 40-yard dash (4.38s) would have finished first among all linebackers at the NFL combine. His time in the 40 was adjusted to an official time of 4.40s and dramatically increased his draft stock and profile. His pro day performance was described as "off the charts" by NFL analyst Gil Brandt.{{Cite web |last=Brandt |first=Gil |date=March 15, 2016 |title=Deion Jones has 'off the charts' workout at LSU's pro day |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/deion-jones-has-off-the-charts-workout-at-lsu-s-pro-day-0ap3000000644566 |access-date=March 16, 2016 |website=NFL.com}} He attended private workouts and visits with multiple teams, including the New Orleans Saints, Indianapolis Colts, Philadelphia Eagles, New York Jets, and San Francisco 49ers.{{Cite web |last=Gowton |first=Brandon Lee |date=March 29, 2016 |title=2016 NFL Draft: LSU linebacker who ran 4.3 40-yard dash will visit the Eagles |url=https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2016/3/29/11321652/2016-nfl-draft-eagles-deion-jones-lsu-linebacker-fast-visit-philadelphia-40-yard-dash-tigers |access-date=February 22, 2018 |website=Bleeding Green Nation}}{{Cite web |date=April 11, 2016 |title=UCLA linebacker Myles Jack works out for Saints, LSU linebacker Deion Jones visits |url=https://www.theadvocate.com/new_orleans/sports/saints/ucla-linebacker-myles-jack-works-out-for-saints-lsu-linebacker-deion-jones-visits/article_74641702-95da-55f4-9798-e93eae58806b.html |access-date=August 9, 2023 |website=The Advocate |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Wilson |first=Josh |date=March 29, 2016 |title=Colts to visit with LSU linebacker Deion Jones |url=https://www.stampedeblue.com/2016/3/29/11326262/colts-to-visit-with-lsu-linebacker-deion-jones |access-date=February 22, 2018 |website=Stampede Blue}}{{Cite web |last=Fucillo |first=David |date=March 29, 2016 |title=Full list of 49ers visits, workouts prior to 2016 NFL Draft |url=https://www.ninersnation.com/2016/4/26/11512412/full-list-of-49ers-visits-workouts-prior-to-2016-nfl-draft |access-date=February 22, 2018 |website=Niners Nation}} At the conclusion of the pre-draft process, Jones was projected to be a second or third round pick by NFL draft experts and scouts. He was able to raise his draft stock with his performances throughout the draft process and went from a projected third or fourth round pick to an all but guaranteed second rounder.{{Cite web |last=Reuter |first=Chad |date=March 11, 2016 |title=Four-round mock 4.0: Cowboys land Joey Bosa, Derrick Henry |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/four-round-mock-4-0-cowboys-land-joey-bosa-derrick-henry-0ap3000000643637 |access-date=March 16, 2016 |website=NFL.com}}{{Cite web |last=Ledyard, Jon |date=January 15, 2016 |title=2016 NFL Draft Scouting Report: LSU LB Deion Jones |url=https://www.draftwire.usatoday.com/2016/01/15/2016-nfl-draft-scouting-report-lsu-lb-deion-jones/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171219154737/http://draftwire.usatoday.com/2016/01/15/2016-nfl-draft-scouting-report-lsu-lb-deion-jones/ |archive-date=December 19, 2017 |access-date=February 22, 2018 |website=draftwire.usatoday.com}} He was ranked the sixth best outside linebacker prospect in the draft by NFLDraftScout.com, was ranked the sixth best linebacker in the draft by NFL analyst Mike Mayock, and was ranked the ninth best linebacker by Sports Illustrated.{{Cite web |title=Deion Jones, DS #6 OLB, LSU |url=https://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=123796&draftyear=2016&genpos=OLB |access-date=February 22, 2018 |website=nfldraftscout.com |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180223051730/https://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=123796&draftyear=2016&genpos=OLB |archive-date=2018-02-23}}{{Cite web |last=Burke |first=Chris |date=April 12, 2016 |title=2016 NFL Draft Positional Rankings |url=https://www.si.com/nfl/2016/04/12/nfl-draft-2016-position-rankings-players-prospects |access-date=February 22, 2018 |website=SI.com}}{{Cite web |last=Mayock |first=Mike |author-link=Mike Mayock |date=April 25, 2016 |title=Mayock's Top 100 Draft Prospect Rankings |url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000655903/article/mike-mayocks-2016-nfl-draft-top-100-prospect-rankings |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160427132844/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000655903/article/mike-mayocks-2016-nfl-draft-top-100-prospect-rankings |url-status=dead |archive-date=April 27, 2016 |access-date=February 22, 2018 |website=NFL.com}}
{{NFL predraft
| height ft = 6
| height in = 0 7/8
| weight = 222
| dash = 4.38
| ten split = 1.52
| twenty split = 2.52
| shuttle = 4.26
| cone drill = 7.13
| vertical = 35.5
| broad ft = 10
| broad in = 0
| bench = 18
| wonderlic =
| arm span = 32 3/8
| hand span = 9 1/4
| note = All values from NFL Combine/LSU's Pro Day{{Cite web |title=2016 NFL Draft Profile: Deion Jones |url=https://www.nfl.com/draft/2016/profiles/deion-jones?id=2555162 |website=NFL.com | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171229112937/https://www.nfl.com/draft/2016/profiles/deion-jones?id=2555162 |archive-date=2017-12-29}}{{Cite web |url=https://www.nfl.com/prospects/deion-jones/32004a4f-4e23-3279-5d90-96adf149a483 |title=Deion Jones Draft and Combine Prospect Profile |website=NFL.com |access-date=February 23, 2025}}{{Cite web |url=https://draftscout.com/dsprofile.php?PlayerId=123796&DraftYear=2016 |title=Deion Jones College Football Profile |website=DraftScout.com |access-date=February 23, 2025}}
}}
=Atlanta Falcons=
==2016 season==
The Atlanta Falcons selected Jones in the second round with the 52nd overall pick in the 2016 NFL draft. He was the eighth linebacker selected in 2016 and was the first of two linebackers the Falcons selected in 2016, along with fourth round pick (115th overall) De'Vondre Campbell.{{Cite web |title=2016 NFL Draft Listing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2016/draft.htm |access-date=May 17, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Jones was also reunited with LSU teammate Jalen Collins.{{Cite web |last=Ledbetter |first=D. Orlando |date=October 24, 2015 |title=Falcons select Deion Jones in the second round |url=https://www.ajc.com/sports/football/falcons-select-deion-jones-the-second-round/VpYUQWkSFPbRAENiDqmgSJ/ |access-date=April 30, 2016 |website=The Atlanta Journal-Constitution}}{{Cite web |date=May 5, 2016 |title=Falcons First Team to Sign Entire Draft Class |url=http://www.atlantafalcons.com/news/blog/article-1/Falcons-First-Team-to-Sign-Entire-Draft-Class/375e8756-cf30-41b5-b6fe-f95ea1c8170f |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170729111748/http://www.atlantafalcons.com/news/blog/article-1/Falcons-First-Team-to-Sign-Entire-Draft-Class/375e8756-cf30-41b5-b6fe-f95ea1c8170f |archive-date=July 29, 2017 |website=AtlantaFalcons.com}} The Falcons decided to draft Jones after linebackers coach Jeff Ulbrich scouted him at the combine. Ulbrich and head coach Dan Quinn thought Jones was an ideal candidate to play middle linebacker with his speed and pass coverage ability.{{Cite web |last=Rohan |first=Tim |date=June 13, 2017 |title=Deion Jones: Ideal Linebacker for the Modern NFL |url=https://www.si.com/nfl/2017/06/13/nfl-deion-jones-atlanta-falcons-ideal-linebacker |access-date=August 9, 2023 |website=Sports Illustrated |language=en-us}}
On May 5, 2016, the Falcons signed Jones to a four-year, $4.54 million contract that includes $2.16 million guaranteed and a signing bonus of $1.50 million.{{Cite web |title=Spotrac.com: Deion Jones contract |url=http://www.spotrac.com/nfl/atlanta-falcons/deion-jones-19001/ |access-date=February 22, 2018 |website=spotrac.com}}
Throughout training camp, Jones competed against veteran Paul Worrilow for the job as the starting middle linebacker. Jones credits Worrilow for guiding him through the beginning of his career and stated Worrilow acted as a mentor even though Jones was drafted with the intent of eventually replacing him. Quinn named Jones the starting middle linebacker to start the regular season.{{Cite web |last=Choate, Dave |date=September 3, 2016 |title=The Falcons 53 man roster and projected depth chart after final cuts |url=https://www.thefalcoholic.com/2016/9/3/12785172/the-falcons-53-man-roster-projected-depth-charts-atlanta-roster-cuts |access-date=February 22, 2018 |website=thefalcoholic.com}}
Jones made his NFL debut and first NFL start in the season-opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and recorded six combined tackles in a 31–24 loss. On September 26, 2016, Jones collected nine combined tackles, broke up two passes, and returned his first NFL interception for a 90-yard touchdown during a 45–32 road victory against the Saints.{{Cite web |title=Atlanta Falcons at New Orleans Saints - September 26th, 2016 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201609260nor.htm |access-date=August 9, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} His interception came in the fourth quarter off a pass attempt by Drew Brees and marked his first NFL touchdown.{{Cite web |last=McClure |first=Vaughn |date=September 27, 2016 |title='Dream come true' for New Orleans native Deion Jones in Superdome debut |url=https://www.espn.com/blog/atlanta-falcons/post/_/id/22711/falcons-rookie-and-new-orleans-native-deion-jones-gets-special-superdome-moment |access-date=August 9, 2023 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}} Jones was inactive for the Falcons' Week 5 victory at the Denver Broncos, after sustaining an ankle injury the previous week.{{Cite web |last=McClure |first=Vaughn |date=October 7, 2016 |title=Jones (ankle) ruled out for Sunday's game at Denver |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/17738888/falcons-lb-deion-jones-ruled-sunday-game-vs-broncos |access-date=February 22, 2018 |website=ESPN.com}} During Week 14, he made five combined tackles, deflected two passes, and returned an interception by Jared Goff for a 33-yard touchdown during a 42–14 road victory against the Los Angeles Rams.{{Cite web |title=Atlanta Falcons at Los Angeles Rams – December 11th, 2016 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201612110ram.htm |access-date=December 29, 2017 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Two weeks later, Jones recorded a season-high 13 combined tackles and broke up a pass during a 33–16 road victory against the Carolina Panthers.
Jones finished his rookie year with 108 combined tackles (75 solo), 11 pass deflections, three interceptions, and two touchdowns in 15 games and 13 starts.{{Cite web |title=Deion Jones 2016 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/J/JoneDe01/gamelog/2016/ |access-date=December 29, 2017 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} He was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team.{{Cite web |title=2016 NFL All-Rookie Team |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/nfl-all-rookie-2016.htm |access-date=August 3, 2024 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
The Falcons finished atop in the NFC South with an 11–5 record and received a first-round bye in the playoffs. On January 14, 2017, Jones started his first NFL playoff game and made five combined tackles, broke up a pass, and intercepted Russell Wilson as they defeated the Seattle Seahawks in the NFC Divisional Round.{{Cite web |title=Divisional Round - Seattle Seahawks at Atlanta Falcons - January 14th, 2017 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201701140atl.htm |access-date=August 9, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} After defeating the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Championship,{{Cite web |title=NFC Championship - Green Bay Packers at Atlanta Falcons - January 22nd, 2017 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201701220atl.htm |access-date=August 9, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} the Falcons went on to face the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LI. On February 5, 2017, Jones recorded nine combined tackles and one forced fumble off of running back LeGarrette Blount during the Falcons' 28–34 overtime loss.{{Cite web |title=Super Bowl LI – New England Patriots vs. Atlanta Falcons – February 5th, 2017 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201702050atl.htm |access-date=August 6, 2017 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com}}
==2017 season==
Jones entered training camp slated as the starting middle linebacker after Paul Worrilow departed for the Detroit Lions in free agency.
During Week 4 against the Buffalo Bills, Jones recorded eight combined tackles and made his first NFL sack on Tyrod Taylor during a 23–17 loss.{{Cite web |title=Buffalo Bills at Atlanta Falcons - October 1st, 2017 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201710010atl.htm |access-date=August 9, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In Week 14, Jones recorded a season-high 13 combined tackles, broke up two passes, and intercepted Drew Brees in the end zone with less than 90 seconds left, sealing a 20–17 victory over the Saints on Thursday Night Football. His performance earned him NFC Defensive Player of the Week.{{Cite web |last=Maya |first=Adam |date=December 13, 2017 |title=Ben Roethlisberger among NFL Players of the Week |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/ben-roethlisberger-headlines-nfl-players-of-the-week-0ap3000000892350 |access-date=August 8, 2023 |website=NFL.com}}{{Cite web |title=New Orleans Saints at Atlanta Falcons – December 7th, 2017 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201712070atl.htm |access-date=December 29, 2017 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} On December 24, 2017, Jones recorded ten combined tackles, defended one pass, and intercepted one pass by Drew Brees in a 23–13 road loss against the Saints.{{Cite web |title=Atlanta Falcons at New Orleans Saints - December 24th, 2017 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201712240nor.htm |access-date=August 9, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
Jones led the team with 138 combined tackles (91 solo) in 2017 and also recorded ten pass deflections, three interceptions, and a sack in 16 games and starts.{{Cite web |title=Deion Jones 2017 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/J/JoneDe01/gamelog/2017/ |access-date=August 9, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=2017 Atlanta Falcons Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees, Injury Reports |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/atl/2017.htm |access-date=August 9, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} The Falcons finished third in the NFC South with a 10–6 record and received a wild card playoff berth.{{Cite web |title=2017 NFL Standings & Team Stats |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2017/index.htm |access-date=August 9, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} On January 6, 2018, Jones recorded ten combined tackles and defended a pass in a 26–13 road victory against the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC Wild Card Round.{{Cite web |title=Wild Card - Atlanta Falcons at Los Angeles Rams - January 6th, 2018 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201801060ram.htm |access-date=August 9, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} They were eliminated from the playoffs the following week after losing 15–10 to the eventual Super Bowl LII Champions the Eagles in the Divisional Round.{{Cite web |title=Divisional Round - Atlanta Falcons at Philadelphia Eagles - January 13th, 2018 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201801130phi.htm |access-date=August 9, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} On January 16, 2018, Jones was named to his first Pro Bowl as a replacement for injured Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly.{{Cite web |last=Williams |first=Charean |date=January 16, 2018 |title=Deion Jones added to Pro Bowl roster |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/deion-jones-added-to-pro-bowl-roster |access-date=August 9, 2023 |website=NBC Sports |language=en-US}}
==2018 season==
During the season opener against the Eagles, Jones recorded his first interception of the season off a pass thrown by Nick Foles. On September 11, 2018, Jones was placed on injured reserve with a foot injury.{{Cite web |last=McClure |first=Vaughn |date=September 11, 2018 |title=Falcons LB Jones to have procedure, goes on IR |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/24646327/atlanta-falcons-place-deion-jones-injured-reserve |access-date=August 9, 2023 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}} He was activated off injured reserve on November 13, 2018.{{Cite web |last=McFadden |first=Will |date=November 13, 2018 |title=Falcons activate Deion Jones from IR, waive Rees Odhiambo |url=https://www.atlantafalcons.com/news/falcons-activate-deion-jones-from-ir-waive-rees-odhiambo |access-date=August 8, 2023 |website=AtlantaFalcons.com}} In Week 15, in a 40–14 victory against the Arizona Cardinals, Jones recorded his second interception of the season, a 41-yard pick-six off a pass thrown by Josh Rosen.{{Cite web |title=Arizona Cardinals at Atlanta Falcons – December 16th, 2018 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201812160atl.htm |access-date=December 3, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
Jones finished the 2018 season with 53 combined tackles, one sack, one forced fumble, and two interceptions in six games and starts.{{Cite web |title=Deion Jones 2018 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/J/JoneDe01/gamelog/2018/ |access-date=December 3, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
==2019 season==
On July 17, 2019, Jones signed a four-year, $57 million contract extension with the Falcons with $34 million guaranteed.{{Cite web |last=Gordon |first=Grant |date=July 17, 2019 |title=Falcons sign Deion Jones to four-year, $57M extension |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/falcons-sign-deion-jones-to-four-year-57m-extension-0ap3000001036109 |access-date=July 18, 2019 |website=NFL.com}}
In the regular season-finale against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Jones recorded his first and only interception of the season off a pass thrown by Jameis Winston and returned it for a 27-yard touchdown on the first play of overtime to secure a 28–22 road victory.{{Cite web |date=December 29, 2019 |title=Jones' INT return in OT lifts Falcons over Bucs 28–22 |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401128034 |access-date=December 29, 2019 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}} Jones was named NFC Defensive Player of the Week for his performance.{{Cite web |last=Bergman |first=Jeremy |date=December 31, 2019 |title=Derrick Henry, Boston Scott among Players of the Week |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/derrick-henry-boston-scott-among-players-of-the-week-0ap3000001093591 |access-date=January 1, 2020 |website=NFL.com |language=en}} With the interception return, he broke the Falcons franchise record for most interceptions returned for a touchdown, previously held by Deion Sanders and Kevin Mathis.{{Cite web |last=Choate |first=Dave |date=December 31, 2019 |title=Deion Jones wins Defensive Player of the Week honors, now holds franchise record for interceptions returned for touchdowns |url=https://www.thefalcoholic.com/2019/12/31/21044226/deion-jones-defensive-player-of-the-week-17-falcons-franchise-record-interception-touchdowns |access-date=December 31, 2019 |website=The Falcoholic |language=en}} He finished the 2019 season with 110 total tackles, one interception, and five passes defended.{{Cite web |title=Deion Jones 2019 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/J/JoneDe01/gamelog/2019/ |access-date=August 9, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
==2020 season==
In Week 6 against the Minnesota Vikings, Jones recorded his first interception of the season off a pass thrown by Kirk Cousins during the 40–23 win.{{Cite web |title=Atlanta Falcons at Minnesota Vikings – October 18th, 2020 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/202010180min.htm |access-date=October 22, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
In Week 7 against the Detroit Lions, Jones recorded his first full sack of the season on Matthew Stafford during the 23–22 loss.{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions at Atlanta Falcons – October 25th, 2020 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/202010250atl.htm |access-date=October 25, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In Week 12 against the Las Vegas Raiders, Jones intercepted a pass thrown by Derek Carr and returned it 67 yards for his sixth career touchdown during the 43–6 win.{{Cite web |title=Las Vegas Raiders at Atlanta Falcons – November 29th, 2020 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/202011290atl.htm |access-date=December 3, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
In Week 15 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Jones led the team with 10 tackles and sacked Tom Brady once during the 31–27 loss.{{Cite web |title=Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Atlanta Falcons – December 20th, 2020 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/202012200atl.htm |access-date=December 20, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} IN the 2020 season, Jones had 4.5 sacks, 106 total tackles, two interceptions, six passes defended, and one forced fumble.{{Cite web |title=Deion Jones 2020 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/J/JoneDe01/gamelog/2020/ |access-date=August 9, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
==2021 season==
In Week 7, Jones registered 15 tackles, three tackles for loss, and a sack in a 30–28 win over the Miami Dolphins, earning NFC Defensive Player of the Week.{{Cite web |title=2021 NFL Week 7 Leaders & Scores |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2021/week_7.htm |access-date=August 9, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In the 2021 season, Jones had two sacks, 137 total tackles, six passes defended, and one forced fumble.{{Cite web |title=Deion Jones 2021 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/J/JoneDe01/gamelog/2021/ |access-date=August 9, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
==2022 season==
On September 1, 2022, Jones was placed on injured reserve.{{Cite web |last=McElhaney |first=Tori |date=September 1, 2022 |title=Falcons place players on injured reserve, re-sign others |url=https://www.atlantafalcons.com/news/falcons-place-jalen-mayfield-marlon-daivdson-on-injured-reserve-re-sign-three |access-date=August 8, 2023 |website=AtlantaFalcons.com}}
=Cleveland Browns=
On October 10, 2022, the Falcons traded Jones and a 2024 seventh-round pick to the Cleveland Browns for a 2024 sixth-round pick.{{Cite web |last=Gordon |first=Grant |date=October 9, 2022 |title=Falcons trade former Pro Bowl LB Deion Jones to Browns |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/browns-acquiring-former-pro-bowl-lb-deion-jones-from-falcons-in-exchange-for-lat |access-date=October 10, 2022 |website=NFL.com}}{{cite web|work=ClevelandBrowns.com|url=https://www.clevelandbrowns.com/news/browns-acquire-pro-bowl-lb-deion-jones-in-trade-with-falcons|title=Browns acquire Pro Bowl LB Deion Jones in trade with Falcons|date=October 10, 2022|accessdate=October 10, 2022|first=Anthony|last=Poisal}} Following the deal, the Browns and Jones agreed to remove a year from his contract.{{Cite web |last=Mueller |first=Jared |date=October 17, 2022 |title=Deion Jones, Browns agreed to adjust contract when trade occurred |url=https://www.dawgsbynature.com/2022/10/17/23409784/browns-deion-jones-contract |access-date=August 9, 2023 |website=Dawgs By Nature |language=en}} He was activated off injured reserve on October 22.{{Cite web |date=October 22, 2022 |title=Browns activate LB Deion Jones, elevate 2 players from practice squad |url=https://www.clevelandbrowns.com/news/browns-activate-lb-deion-jones-elevate-2-players-from-practice-squad |access-date=August 8, 2023 |website=ClevelandBrowns.com}} He finished the 2022 season with 2.5 sacks, 44 total tackles, one interception, three passes defended, and one forced fumble in 11 games and five starts.{{Cite web |title=Deion Jones 2022 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/J/JoneDe01/gamelog/2022/ |access-date=August 9, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
=Carolina Panthers=
On July 31, 2023, Jones signed with the Panthers.{{Cite web |last=Newton |first=David |date=July 31, 2023 |title=Panthers add veteran Deion Jones to bolster LB corps |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/38109290/panthers-add-veteran-deion-jones-bolster-lb-corps|access-date=August 8, 2023 |website=ESPN.com}} He was released on August 29, 2023, then re-signed to the practice squad on September 11.{{Cite web |last=Gantt |first=Darin |date=August 29, 2023 |title=Panthers make moves en route to 53-man roster limit |url=https://www.panthers.com/news/panthers-make-moves-en-route-to-53-man-roster-limit |access-date=February 22, 2025 |website=Panthers.com}}{{Cite web |last=Rizzuti |first=Anthony |date=September 11, 2023 |title=Panthers sign LB Deion Jones to practice squad |url=https://pantherswire.usatoday.com/2023/09/11/panthers-sign-lb-deion-jones-to-practice-squad/ |access-date=February 22, 2025 |website=Panthers Wire |publisher=USA Today}} He was promoted to the active roster on September 20.{{Cite web |last=Gantt |first=Darin |date=September 20, 2023 |title=Panthers add Deion Jones to 53-man roster |url=https://www.panthers.com/news/panthers-add-deion-jones-to-53-man-roster-shaq-thompson-jake-luton |access-date=February 22, 2025 |website=Panthers.com}}
=Buffalo Bills=
On May 3, 2024, Jones signed a one-year contract with the Buffalo Bills.{{Cite web |last=White |first=Alec |last2=Glab |first2=Maddy |date=May 3, 2024 |title=Bills announce three free agent signings to one-year deals |url=https://www.buffalobills.com/news/bills-announce-three-free-agent-signings-to-one-year-deals |access-date=May 3, 2024 |website=BuffaloBills.com |language=en-US}} He was released on August 25.{{Cite web |last=White |first=Alec |date=August 25, 2024 |title=Bills release 7 players, place 2 safeties on IR |url=https://www.buffalobills.com/news/bills-release-7-players-place-2-safeties-on-ir |access-date=February 22, 2025 |website=BuffaloBills.com}}
=Tampa Bay Buccaneers=
On December 10, 2024, Jones was signed to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers practice squad.{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Scott |date=December 10, 2024 |title=Bucs Sign LB Deion Jones to Practice Squad |url=https://www.buccaneers.com/news/tampa-bay-sign-lb-deion-jones-practice-squad-2024-season |access-date=February 22, 2025 |website=Buccaneers.com}} He signed a reserve/future contract on January 14, 2025.{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Scott |date=January 14, 2025 |title=Bucs Re-Sign 17 Practice Squad Players to 2025 Futures Deals |url=https://www.buccaneers.com/news/bucs-re-sign-full-practice-squad-2025-futures-deals |access-date=February 22, 2025 |website=Buccaneers.com}}
NFL career statistics
| class="wikitable"
! colspan="2"| Legend |
| style="background:#cfecec; width:3em;"|
| Led the league |
| Bold
| Career high |
= Regular season =
| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;" | ||||||||||||||||
| rowspan="2"| Year
! rowspan="2"| Team ! colspan="2"| Games ! colspan="4"| Tackles ! colspan="6"| Interceptions ! colspan="4"| Fumbles | ||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GP | GS | Cmb | Solo | Ast | Sck | PD | Int | Yds | Avg | Lng | TD | FF | FR | Yds | TD | |
| 2016 | ATL
| 15 || 13 || 108 || 75 || 33 || 0.0 || 11 || 3 || style="background:#cfecec;"|165 || 55.0 || 90T || style="background:#cfecec;"|2 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 0 | |||||||||||||||
| 2017 | ATL
| 16 || 16 || 138 || 91 || 47 || 1.0 || 10 || 3 || 42 || 14.0 || 41 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 | |||||||||||||||
| 2018 | ATL
| 6 || 6 || 53 || 34 || 19 || 1.0 || 6 || 2 || 61 || 30.5 || 41 || 1 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 0 | |||||||||||||||
| 2019 | ATL
| 16 || 16 || 110 || 68 || 42 || 0.0 || 5 || 1 || 27 || 27.0 || 27T || 1 || 0 || 1 || 5 || 0 | |||||||||||||||
| 2020 | ATL
| 16 || 16 || 106 || 73 || 33 || 4.5 || 6 || 2 || 84 || 42.0 || 67T || 1 || 1 || 1 || 0 || 0 | |||||||||||||||
| 2021 | ATL
| 16 || 16 || 137 || 87 || 50 || 2.0 || 6 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 0 | |||||||||||||||
| 2022 | CLE
| 11 || 5 || 44 || 25 || 19 || 2.5 || 3 || 1 || 5 || 5.0 || 5 || 0 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 0 | |||||||||||||||
| 2023 | CAR
| 13 || 3 || 35 || 22 || 13 || 1.0 || 6 || 1 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 | |||||||||||||||
| 2024 | TB
| 2 || 0 || 1 || 1 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 | |||||||||||||||
| colspan="2"| [https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/J/JoneDe01.htm Career] | 111 | 91 | 732 | 476 | 256 | 12.0 | 53 | 13 | 384 | 29.5 | 90T | 5 | 5 | 2 | 5 | 0 |
= Postseason =
| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;" | ||||||||||||||||
| rowspan="2"| Year
! rowspan="2"| Team ! colspan="2"| Games ! colspan="4"| Tackles ! colspan="6"| Interceptions ! colspan="4"| Fumbles | ||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GP | GS | Cmb | Solo | Ast | Sck | PD | Int | Yds | Avg | Lng | TD | FF | FR | Yds | TD | |
| 2016 | ATL
| 3 || 3 || 20 || 15 || 5 || 0.0 || 3 || 1 || 28 || 28.0 || 28 || 0 || style="background:#cfecec;"|1 || 0 || 0 || 0 | |||||||||||||||
| 2017 | ATL
| 2 || 2 || 13 || 9 || 4 || 0.0 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 | |||||||||||||||
| 2024 | TB
| 1 || 0 || 2 || 1 || 1 || 0.0 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 | |||||||||||||||
| colspan="2"| [https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/J/JoneDe01/gamelog/post/ Career] | 6 | 5 | 35 | 25 | 10 | 0.0 | 5 | 1 | 28 | 28.0 | 28 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Personal life
Jones' father named him after Hall of Fame cornerback Deion Sanders. He began being known as "War Daddy" during his stint at LSU.{{Cite web |last=Hummer |first=Steve |date=August 13, 2016 |title=Worrilow and the rookie: A timeless training camp tale |url=https://www.myajc.com/sports/football/worrilow-and-the-rookie-timeless-training-camp-tale/wS8lcNjDObdO5gaWqqDKVJ.html |access-date=February 22, 2018 |website=The Atlanta Journal-Constitution}}{{Dead link|date=November 2019 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} Jones' nickname "Debo" was given to him by his father and is a portmanteau of Deion Sanders and Bo Jackson.{{Cite web |title=Deion Jones: Ready To Blaze His Own Trail |url=https://www.seniorbowl.com/deion-jones-ready-to-blaze-his-own-trail |access-date=August 9, 2023 |website=Senior Bowl |language=en}}
References
{{reflist}}
External links
{{commons category|Deion Jones}}
- {{Twitter}}
{{footballstats|yahoo=29285|pfr=J/JoneDe01|espn=2976545}}
- [https://www.buccaneers.com/team/players-roster/deion-jones/ Tampa Bay Buccaneers bio]
- [http://www.lsusports.net/ViewArticle.dbml?ATCLID=205372032 LSU Tigers bio] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222155802/http://www.lsusports.net/ViewArticle.dbml?ATCLID=205372032 |date=December 22, 2015 }}
{{Falcons2016DraftPicks}}
{{Tampa Bay Buccaneers roster navbox}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Jones, Deion}}
Category:American football linebackers
Category:Atlanta Falcons players
Category:Carolina Panthers players
Category:Cleveland Browns players
Category:LSU Tigers football players
Category:Jesuit High School (New Orleans) alumni
Category:Players of American football from New Orleans
Category:National Conference Pro Bowl players