Detroit Lions wide receiver Marvin Jones Jr. announced on Tuesday that he is stepping away from the team to take care of personal family matters. The 11-year veteran did not disclose the reason behind his departure, but thanked the Lions organization and the city of Detroit for their support.
Jones released by Lions after announcement
Shortly after Jones shared the news on his Instagram account, the Lions said they had released him from the roster. The move was made with a mutual understanding between Jones and the team, according to a statement by Lions general manager Brad Holmes.
“Marvin has been a tremendous leader and teammate for us, and we respect his decision to step away from the game at this time,” Holmes said. “We wish him and his family all the best and appreciate his contributions to our organization.”
Jones, who signed a one-year deal with the Lions in March, had 15 catches for 202 yards and two touchdowns in six games this season. He was the team’s second-leading receiver behind rookie Amon-Ra St. Brown.
Jones faced tragedy in 2019
This is not the first time Jones has dealt with a personal tragedy while playing for the Lions. In 2019, he lost his six-month-old son Marlo to a sudden illness. Jones and his wife Jazmyn have four other children: Marvin III, Mareon, Murrell and Mya.
Jones was praised by his teammates and coaches for his courage and resilience after the loss of his son. He continued to play at a high level, finishing the 2019 season with 62 receptions for 779 yards and nine touchdowns.
In an emotional Instagram post in December 2019, Jones wrote: “I miss you so much man. I love you so much. You have changed me forever. You are my reason why. I long to see you again.”
Jones had a productive career with Lions
Jones joined the Lions in 2016 as a free agent after spending his first four seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals. He quickly established himself as one of the team’s top offensive weapons, forming a dynamic duo with fellow receiver Kenny Golladay.
In five seasons with the Lions, Jones recorded 289 catches for 4,296 yards and 36 touchdowns. He ranks seventh in franchise history in receiving yards and sixth in receiving touchdowns.
Jones also had some memorable performances with the Lions, such as his four-touchdown game against the Minnesota Vikings in 2019 and his 205-yard game against the Green Bay Packers in 2017.
Jones’ future in NFL uncertain
It is unclear whether Jones will return to the NFL or retire from football altogether. He is currently 33 years old and has played 10 seasons in the league.
Jones has not indicated any plans for his future, but said he will always cherish his time with the Lions.
“I cannot be the person/player that I need to be for this team as well as tend to my family from afar,” Jones wrote on Instagram. “I will always love Detroit and this organization as well as all of my teammates that I have played with throughout my career.”
