Adrian Fedkiw
Donnie Jones is going out as a champion!
The Philadelphia Eagles punter, Jones, announced his retirement from the NFL on Tuesday following a solid 14-year career.
Donnie Football joined the Eagles in 2013 and is the franchise’s all-time leader in gross punting average (45.37), net average (40.5) and punts inside the 20 (138). The 37-year-old played for five different teams, coming into the NFL as a 7th-round pick with the Seattle Seahawks in 2004. He was an All-Pro while with the St. Louis Rams in 2008 and 2009. In a statement released by the Eagles, Jones explained that he is retiring to spend more time with his family.
After 14 seasons in the NFL, I have decided to retire so that I can spend more time with my family. I am grateful for all those who have supported me throughout the years. Specifically, I would like to thank Jeffrey Lurie, Howie Roseman, Doug Pederson, and the entire Eagles organization for allowing me to be a part of their family for the past five seasons. I will truly miss my teammates, coaches, friends, and the best fans in the NFL. Although I am retiring, I will always be an Eagle and will forever have a special place in my heart for the city of Philadelphia. It is a great honor to be a part of the first Super Bowl championship team in Eagles history and there is no better way to finish my career.
From a football perspective, Jones’ retirement saves the Birds $1.875 million in salary cap space. Look for 2017 undrafted free agent Cameron Johnston to potentially be the Eagles’ new punter next season. The Ohio State product was the Big Ten Punter of the Year during his senior season and his 46.7 average was fifth in the country.
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