For seven seasons, Byron Jones was a standout cornerback for the Dallas Cowboys and Miami Dolphins, and he was named to the Pro Bowl in 2018 after recording 14 passes defended.
He didn’t play this season after starting it on the reserve/PUP list, and it looks like his NFL career is over.
Jones took to Twitter to send a message to the players who will be entering the league for next season and let them know what they would have to deal with as pro football players.
It was an honor and privilege to play in the NFL but it came at a regrettable cost I did not foresee. In my opinion, no amount of professional success or financial gain is worth avoiding chronic pain and disabilities. Godspeed to the draft class of 2023.
—Byron Jones (@TheByronJones) February 25, 2023
Some fans thought he was merely whining.
If you believe that you’d sustain no injuries working anywhere welcome to the real world I’ve been injured on the job and don’t complain. For a fraction of money you have made I’d say you’re winning.
—George Hernandez (@GeorgeCboyfan84) February 25, 2023
People of most all occupations destroy their body’s for their jobs. they deal with chronic pain and disabilities but don’t have millions of dollars to show for it.
—devin bigelow (@devinbigelow1) February 25, 2023
This fan, on the other hand, kept Jones’ comments in perspective.
They do not cause the amount of damage a professional football player goes through. This is an asinine comparison to a labor intensive job that is hard on the joints or back.
—Anthony (@doncruzinnn) February 25, 2023
These two fans had a positive attitude about what Jones said and thanked him for his service.
Loved what you’ve done in Miami, whether you continue in the NFL or not, thank you for the sacrifices you made for this sport. Much respect!
—Rich Booth (@RichieBoothie) February 25, 2023
Byron, thank you for your time. Us as fans, we never really know what goes on behind the scenes, take care of yourself. And do what’s best for you and your family, stay blessed.
— Fire Mike McDaniel ☀️🐬 Julio Cruz ✝️ (@JCSTRPES) February 25, 2023
If this is indeed it for Jones, he will end his career with 57 passes defended, 11 tackles for loss, five forced fumbles and four interceptions, one of which he ran back for a touchdown.
He made two appearances in the playoffs as a member of the Cowboys, one in 2016 and the other in 2018.
The Connecticut native was the 27th overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft after playing four seasons of college ball at the University of Connecticut.
The Dolphins have promise as long as quarterback Tua Tagovailoa avoids any additional concussions, but they need help defensively, especially in the secondary, as they finished 26th in passing touchdowns allowed and 27th in passing yards given up this season.
Xavien Howard, their other starting cornerback over the last few years, is a star and a four-time Pro Bowler, but he will need some reinforcements next season.
NEXT:
Tua Tagovailoa Has A New Method To Avoid Head Injuries
