Where will Jason Jones sign in 2016 NFL free agency?
Coming into a contract year, Detroit Lions defensive end Jason Jones had some questions to answer. He had to prove that he could be a solid every down lineman. The 29 year old defensive end who turns 30 in May responded by having a very solid season with 31 tackles, 4.5 sacks, and one pass defended. Jones has done enough to earn a contract to play somewhere in 2016. But where will that be?
Vitals
Age: 29 (turns 30 on May 23)
Notable stat: has 45 tackles and 9.5 sacks over his last two seasons
All-Pro teams: 0
Pro Bowls: 0
Contract comparison
Jones came to Detroit on a three year deal in 2013 after spending a year in Seattle and on the wrong side of his career. His injury-ridden 2013 season didn’t help his cause. However, over the past two seasons, Jason Jones has proven that he is deserving of regular playing time. While he does not have elite pass rushing skills, his 9.5 sacks over the past two seasons proves that he has a knack for getting after the quarterback.
He has long been a favorite of Pro Football Focus for his ability to do valuable things that don’t always get shown on the scoresheet, such as setting the edge while defending the run and causing disruption while pass rushing. His age will prevent him from getting a long-term deal, but a two or three year deal makes sense. In this market, a three year deal is more likely. His injury history will likely cost him some guaranteed money.
Estimate: 3 years/$12 million/$3.5 million guaranteed
Will he stay?
Jones has done a wonderful job rebuilding his career and value in Detroit. The Lions would likely love to keep him. However, Jones will most likely want to make sure that he cashes in for his hard work. Signing him to a three year deal might not be something that the Lions are prepared to do. Detroit has the defensive line depth necessary to replace him at a much lower cost. Jason Jones is well respected in the Lions organization, but his time has likely come to an end.
If he leaves…
Teams will express interest in Jason Jones because of his consistent ability to stop the run and his ability to play in a 4-3 system. The Atlanta Falcons could use the depth at defensive end and need a solid run stopper who is also a 4-3 defensive end. Jones fits that description perfectly. The Philadelphia Eagles definitely need the help but it remains to be seen if they’ll stick with the 4-3 defense. Another team that needs defensive depth is the New Orleans Saints.