Seasoned NFL punter Donnie Jones revealed his retirement after a whopping 14 seasons in the National Football League. The Eagles veteran will end his impressive career on a high note after the Philadelphia Eagles defeated the New England Patriots in Super Bowl Lii in a 41-33 victory. A report by the team revealed the news.
Donnie Jones announces retirement from NFL
During the Eagles' 41-33 victory over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LII, Jones holds the distinction of having the only punt.
Jones concludes his tenure with the Eagles with several records. His 45.4 all-time gross punting average, 40.5 all-time net punting average, and 138 punts within the 20-yard line are Philadelphia Eagles records.
In a statement, Donnie Jones allowed, “After 14 seasons in the NFL, I have decided to retire so that I can spend more time with my family,” Jones stated. “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..."
In 2013, Jones joined the Eagles as a free agent after a 2012 season with the Houston Texans.
Prior to that, Jones spent the 2004 season with the Seattle Seahawks, 2005-2006 season with the Miami Dolphins, and the 2007-2011 season playing for the St. Louis Rams.
During his time in the NFL, Jones set a record of 80 regular-season games played by an Eagles punter and played in all 16 regular-season games from his 2005 season. As such, Jones ranks as the third-longest consecutive games played streak in the NFL with 208, with only Dallas Cowboys tight end Jason Witten and Texans punter Shane Lechler achieving higher consecutive games played streaks.
Ends career on a high note
The 37-year-old Jones averaged 45.4 yards punting, and was awarded AP All-Pro honors in 2008 and 2009 as a Rams player.
His departure from the Philadelphia Eagles leaves a large void, however not one which the defending Super Bowl champions are incapable of filling. The Philadelphia Eagles organization offered its well-wishes, congratulating Jones on an accomplished career both with Philly and in the NFL. While highlight reels tend to feature impressive throws, drives, and touchdowns, the punter remains one of the most crucial spots on an NFL roster for success. Truly, Donnie Jones will be missed as an Eagle and in the National Football League.
Offering its best wishes, the Philadelphia Eagles organization said: "We want to congratulate Donnie Jones on reaching the pinnacle of his career and retiring as a Super Bowl champion." Indeed, Donnie Jones leaves a legacy of greatness behind. Fly Eagles fly!