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It’s finally happening — the Tennessee Titans are trading for Julio Jones per multiple reports this morning. The Titans are expected to give ‘at least’ a second round pick for the former All-Pro wide receiver, who is now 32 years old.
Sources: The #Falcons are trading All-Pro WR Julio Jones to the #Titans in exchange for at least a 2nd round pick. A blockbuster for Tennessee, who now gets the coveted big-play threat. And Atlanta ends up with very nice value.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) June 6, 2021
The move fills an obvious need opposite of A.J. Brown after the departure of Corey Davis. Jon Robinson held firm on his offer, despite the reports that the Falcons wanted a first round pick in return.
It’s a win-win for both sides, as Atlanta gains some much needed cap space with the move. Jones is set to count $23 million against the cap this year, meaning the Titans will have to make another move to free up cap space. It’s been widely speculated that a simple restructure of Ryan Tannehill’s contract would do the trick.
Jones’ contract runs through the 2023 season. He played in nine games in 2020, battling injury. Julio finished the year with 51 receptions for 771 yards and three touchdowns. Now set to play with A.J. Brown on the other side and Derrick Henry in the backfield, Julio should find plenty of room to operate in this offense.
Of course, the question remains, how much is left in the tank? Julio’s best years are certainly behind him, but Robinson is gambling that he’s got a least a couple of really productive seasons left in him.
The Titans took some hits this offseason by losing Corey Davis and Jonnu Smith, but they’ve reloaded in a big way here. The NFL’s second-most productive offense in 2020 now adds an All-Pro, along with a completely remade defense.
Jon Robinson is going for it all, and this fall just got a lot more interesting.
Update: Full terms are below.
Full terms:
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) June 6, 2021
The #Falcons get a 2022 2nd round pick and Atlanta gets the titans 4 in 2023 and they give back their 6 in 2023.
The Titans get Julio Jones.