The Buffalo Bills are expanding their roster to 90 players, and they’ve just signed Deion Jones, a former Pro Bowl linebacker. Jones, 29, was picked up on a one-year deal announced on Thursday. He was drafted in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft by the Atlanta Falcons, where he showed promise in his first two seasons.
During his rookie year, Jones impressed with 108 total tackles, three interceptions, two defensive touchdowns, 11 passes defended, and one forced fumble. He continued to excel in the playoffs, earning a spot on the Pro Football Writers of America All-Rookie Team. In his second season, Jones reached career highs with 138 total tackles, three interceptions, and his first sack, earning him a Pro Bowl nod.
However, a foot injury limited him to just six games in 2018, where he still managed 53 tackles, two interceptions, and a defensive score. While he maintained a high level of play through 2020, his performance seemed to decline in 2021, despite decent stats.
In 2022, Jones was placed on injured reserve by the Falcons due to a shoulder injury, and then traded to the Cleveland Browns in October. After being activated, he contributed 2.5 sacks, 44 tackles, an interception, three passes defended, and a forced fumble in 11 games, with 5 starts.
Following the end of his contract with the Browns, Jones signed with the Carolina Panthers in late July. He initially didn’t make the 53-man roster, but was later promoted. Jones ended up with 35 tackles, a sack, an interception, and six passes defended in 13 games, including 3 starts.
Now with the Buffalo Bills, Jones will be competing for a backup position behind Matt Milano and Terrel Bernard. He’ll be up against Dorian Williams, Nicholas Morrow, Baylon Spector, and draft pick Edefuan Ulofoshio.
