Former Falcons star, seven-time Pro-Bowler Julio Jones retires from NFL after 13 seasons

Written by: E. George

Published April 14, 2025 @ 12:16 PM ET

FULTON COUNTY, Ga. – Julio Jones, one of the most prolific wide receivers in NFL history and a defining figure in the Atlanta Falcons’ franchise, has officially announced his retirement from professional football after a 13-season career.

The 36-year-old concluded his playing days on Friday, April 4, 2025, through a video posted on the Squad app, marking the end of a career that began with the Falcons in 2011 and extended through stints with Tennessee, Tampa Bay, and most recently, the Philadelphia Eagles.

Jones’ announcement was timed to coincide with “404 Day,” a date that holds significance for the city of Atlanta, where he spent the prime of his career.

Drafted sixth overall in 2011 out of Alabama, Jones quickly established himself as a cornerstone of Atlanta’s offense. Over a decade with the Falcons, he set franchise records in receptions and receiving yards, finishing with 848 catches and 12,896 yards for the team. His 60 touchdowns with the Falcons place him second in team history behind only Roddy White.

Jones’ career accolades underscore his dominance at the position. A seven-time Pro Bowler and two-time first-team All-Pro, he led the NFL in receiving yards twice and was known for his combination of speed, strength, and route precision. Between 2014 and 2018, he set an NFL record with five consecutive seasons topping 1,400 receiving yards.

In total, Jones amassed 914 receptions for 13,703 yards and 66 touchdowns across 155 career games. He played a key role in the Falcons’ run to Super Bowl LI during the 2016 season, contributing more than 300 yards and multiple scores in three playoff games that year.

His legacy also includes three games with over 250 receiving yards—an NFL record—and a lasting impression as one of the most physically gifted wide receivers ever to play the game. While his final season in 2023 with Philadelphia saw limited production, his impact on the sport remains undeniable.