The Carolina Panthers signed former Falcons linebacker Deion Jones following a workout on Monday. The 28-year-old was drafted by Atlanta in 2016, starting 83 games for the Falcons from 2016-2021.
Jones made the Pro Bowl in 2017, and was considered one of Atlanta’s core players before his career was slowed by injuries. During his first three NFL seasons, Jones recorded eight interceptions and 27 passes defended despite missing 11 games.
Jones, who was introduced by the Panthers on Tuesday, said he simply wants to fit in. Here’s a clip from his press conference, as shared by Panthers beat reporter Sheena Quick.
Deion Jones on why the Panthers “made sense.” pic.twitter.com/IHROTlRsBh
— Sheena Quick (@Sheena_Marie3) August 1, 2023
Atlanta traded Jones to the Browns in October of 2022 for a modest exchange of late-round picks. Jones played in 11 games for the Browns last season, making five starts.
Assuming Jones makes Carolina’s 53-man roster, he will make his return to Atlanta in Week 1 when the Falcons host the Panthers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. These two NFC South rivals won’t face off again until Week 15.