Although new Atlanta Falcons head coach Dan Quinn has a strong defensive pedigree as the former defensive coordinator of the Seattle Seahawks, he still knows the value of a dynamic offense and the need for playmakers on both sides of the ball. One playmaker that he is particularly excited to work with in Atlanta is star wide receiver Julio Jones.
Falcons coach Dan Quinn wants long-term deal for Julio Jones
Jones, one of the league’s elite receivers when healthy, is set to become a free agent after the 2015 season.
Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Quinn told Vaughn McClure of ESPN Tuesday that he is very impressed with Jones' talent and competitiveness, and sees him as a key piece of the offense in Atlanta, both next season and for the long haul.
“What a tough matchup to cover,” Quinn said. “I think one of the things that I respect most is [he’s] a relentless competitor, the way he can go attack the ball. I can’t wait to get connected with him.”
The head coach confirmed that he has every intention of locking up the 26-year-old with a long-term deal in the near future. Falcons owner Arthur Blank also told ESPN that Quinn will have the final say regarding all personnel decisions and the 53-man roster.
Jones is entering the final season of his rookie contract after the Falcons exercised his fifth-year option prior to this season. He is set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2016 if the team does not give him an extension beforehand.
When healthy, Jones is one of the elite receivers in the league. He ranked third in the NFL in both receptions and receiving yards, finishing 2014 with a franchise-record 1,593 yards. Jones missed only one game this year, but was plagued by various injuries throughout the season, including a hip injury that caused him to miss the Pro Bowl. He also played in just five games in 2013 after fracturing his foot that October.
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