Titans GM after acquiring Julio: 'It's a big day for our team'
The Tennessee Titans made a clear statement to the rest of the NFL on Sunday, finalizing a blockbuster trade for wide receiver Julio Jones.
With the Titans looking to make a Super Bowl run in 2021, general manager Jon Robinson knows how significant the acquisition of the star pass-catcher could be for his team's chances.
"Excited to add Julio to the football team. He's excited to be part of what we've got going on in Nashville. It's a big day for our team," Titans general manager Jon Robinson said Sunday, according to ESPN.
Jones is among the most accomplished receivers of the last decade. The 32-year-old has racked up a league-leading 12,896 yards since being drafted in 2011. He has also earned seven Pro Bowl nominations and made the All-Pro first team twice and the second team on three occasions.
The Titans reportedly beat out the New England Patriots, Los Angeles Rams, and Seattle Seahawks to get Jones, ultimately sending a second-round pick and a 2023 fourth-rounder to the Atlanta Falcons for the wideout and a 2023 sixth-rounder.
The addition of Jones to an offense that already boasts running back Derrick Henry and wide receiver A.J. Brown means the Titans will arguably field one of the most talented units in the league.
While the Titans are thrilled with their new weapon, the Falcons are losing one of the most beloved players in franchise history.
Owner Arthur Blank, who once said he wanted Jones to play his entire career in Atlanta, paid tribute to the wide receiver in a statement.
"Julio Jones will always be part of the Falcons story, having set numerous records and creating many great memories for all our fans, including me, since the day we drafted him," he said. "He has been a fixture on our team for almost half the time I have owned the Falcons.
"As we both move in another direction, I'm deeply grateful for what Julio has done for our team and what he has meant to our city and, in my mind, he will always be part of the Falcons family. I wish him nothing but the best in Tennessee and throughout his life."