The Falcons are “confident” that they will get star wide receiver Julio Jones to agree to a contract extension by the time training camp begins, according to a report by Dianna Russini of ESPN.
When Jones signed his first extension four years ago, he became the second-highest-paid receiver in the league in average salary behind Calvin Johnson. However, the market has since reset several times, and Jones is relatively underpaid compared to other elite receivers around the NFL.
Heading into the 2019 season, Jones ranks No. 12 in the league in average compensation at his position.
If the two sides can’t hammer out a new deal, Jones is scheduled to make $9.6 million in base salary this year and $11.4 million in 2020. His salary cap hits come out to a total of just over $26.3 million, per Over the Cap, so reaching a long-term agreement is also in Atlanta’s best interest. By spreading Jones’ cap hits out over several seasons, they can free up more money for this year.
The Falcons are also negotiating a long-term deal with defensive tackle Grady Jarrett. If that doesn’t work out, Jarrett will play out the 2019 season under the franchise tag for $15.2 million.
