THE PHONE CALL THAT GOT JULIO JONES TRADED
How did we get here? Shannon Sharpe called Julio Jones on the live TV show Undisputed and asked him, straight up, if he wanted to stay in Atlanta. Jones quickly responded, “No, I’m outta there.” Julio probably didn’t know he was on the air. The Falcons and the NFL were like, WTF?
Jones requested a trade a few months ago, according to NFL Network’s Insider Ian Rapoport. The Falcons wanted a first-round pick for Jones. Instead, they settled for a second and fourth-round pick. He would have been perfect in Kansas City with Tyreek Hill on the other side or in Green Bay with DaVante Adams. Aaron Rodgers would have probably quit bitching and got back in camp. But what do I know? I’m just a fantasy football expert.
When it comes to fantasy football stats, Julio is consistent. He’s always drafted as a WR1. Since 2011 Jones has 848 receptions for 12,896 yards and 60 touchdowns. I had Matt Ryan come off the bench last year after my original starter, Drew Brees, got hurt. It felt like Julio was on my team at times, even if it was only for nine games.
I think the Falcons are going to be okay. Scoring points was not their problem last year. Matty Ice played seven games without Julio Jones, and Calvin Ridley will replace his old Alabama alum as the new WR1. Russell Gage will now be WR2, and they drafted the best tight end coming out of college Kyle Pitts. I have no problem taking any Atlanta Falcons on draft day.
The Titan’s offense won’t miss a beat. Quarterback Ryan Tannehill is being drafted as a QB1 even with wide receiver Corey Davis leaving in free agency to the New York Jets and tight end Jonnu Smith going to the New England Patriots. Julio is an upgrade over Davis, and teaming him up with A.J. Brown will be fun to watch. Running back Derrick Henry is still a beast. Last year he led the NFL in attempts with 378. He also led the NFL in rushing yards, rushing touchdowns, and rushing yards per game. I had King Henry on my squad last season, and if I get a chance to redraft him this year, I will.
-The Commish Kit
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