25 best NFL players of all time from the SEC
By John Buhler
Julio Jones
Wide Receiver, Alabama Crimson Tide
Of all the active NFL players that make this list, it’s hard to argue that any former SEC player is more talented than Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones. As Calvin Johnson’s came to a close in Detroit, Jones has emerged as the more explosive and versatile wide receiver in football today.
Jones will be forever linked with Cincinnati Bengals star wideout A.J. Green, whose careers have overlapped both in the SEC and the NFL. While Green starred at Georgia, Jones won National Championships in his home state with the Alabama Crimson Tide.
Through six NFL seasons, Jones has made four Pro Bowls and garnered two All-Pro selections. In 79 career games thus far, Jones has 497 catches for 7,610 yards and 40 touchdowns. Though he didn’t win MVP last season, it’s not debatable that Jones is the best player on the Falcons roster currently. We’re seeing greatness in effect.
The comparisons to Johnson may apply more to Green than Jones. Though it’s almost blasphemous to seriously consider, is Jones the most complete wide receiver in the NFL since Jerry Rice? Health is the main issue going forward with Jones. If that stays in his favor, his work ethic and student mentality to the game of football will make him an all-time great by the time he hangs up the cleats.