Former Dallas Cowboys defensive back Byron Jones claims he is only a shadow of the player he once was.
A video of Jones’ 2015 NFL Scouting Combine performance, during which he broke the world record in the broad jump, surfaced on Twitter over the weekend, which prompted him to express his thoughts.
“Much has changed in 8 years,” Jones tweeted. “Today I can’t run or jump because of my injuries sustained playing this game. DO NOT take the pills they give you. DO NOT take the injections they give you. If you absolutely must, consult an outside doctor to learn the long-term implications.”
“It was an honor and privilege to play in the NFL but it came at a regrettable cost I did not foresee,” the eight-year veteran added. “In my opinion, no amount of professional success or financial gain is worth avoidable chronic pain and disabilities. Godspeed to the draft class of 2023.”
The announcement sparked rumors of Jones’ retirement, but reporters quickly dispelled those rumors.
Jones spent five seasons with the Cowboys after the club selected him 27th overall in 2015.
He signed a five-year, $82 million contract with the Miami Dolphins in 2020 and missed the 2022 season with an Achilles injury that required surgery.
Achilles injuries have been known to end athletic careers as the road to recovery can be rigorous and take a year or longer in many cases.
He also missed time with lower leg injuries with the Cowboys in 2019.
The NFL Players Association does not release information on player injuries.
Jones has played in 109 games as a cornerback and safety and made the Pro Bowl with Dallas in 2018. He has two interceptions and 14 passes defended in his two healthy seasons in Miami.
According to ESPN, his current deal runs through 2024, but the Dolphins could release him to open more cap space.
Jones was a really solid CB for Dallas, he did a great job not giving up TDs and big plays. He just didn’t get interceptions. Diggs probably has more interception in his two best games than Jones has in his career. But, Jones didn’t give up as many big plays. Pick your poison.
God bless this young man.. I suffer from back pain and knee pain. I started getting steroid injections in my knee, it worked but when I stopped pain got worst! A nurse told me she had done and just listen to the clicking in her knee, the cartilage is gone, bone against bone , next thing knee replacement surgery . My advice just give it up , physical therapy, move on with your life.retire, money means nothing, fame means nothing , when there is no quality of life. You in my prayers. NFL want wins at any cost! They don’t care about the players! Just the wins, endorsements and money it brings to the franchise.. you are are just phon on the chest board.