If there's anyone who knows how great Julio Jones was at the height of his NFL career, it's former Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan. The two former first-round picks were like peanut butter and jelly during their time together in Atlanta, combining for over 12,000 yards and 60 touchdowns over 10 seasons.
On Friday, Jones announced his retirement after 13 NFL seasons and Ryan was one of the first people to congratulate him. Ryan posted the below message on his Instagram account.
"Still to this day the best catch I've ever seen was right after we drafted Julio, we were at Buford high school working out," wrote Ryan. "Back of the endzone one handed catch. I've never seen anyone elevate like that. I knew immediately he was different. His impact on the city of ATL, the Falcons organization, the fans and his teammates is immeasurable. His impact on me was more significant than any other person I played with or for. One of the best to ever do it. Congrats on an amazing career. Enjoy retirement jet!"
Matt Ryan posted a tribute in honor of Julio Jones on Saturday
— Sports Illustrated (@SInow) April 5, 2025
(via @M_Ryan02) pic.twitter.com/wJdeMJlA6f
A decade after drafting Jones with the sixth overall pick, the Falcons traded him to the Tennessee Titans in 2021. Ryan was traded to the Indianapolis Colts one year later. Both players had their share of struggles after leaving Atlanta.
Jones had just 807 total yards over his final three seasons in the league for the Titans, Buccaneers and Eagles (2021-2023).Ryan's final year in Indianapolis was a bit of a disaster as well.
Regardless of how it ended, Jones and Ryan will be remembered as two of the greatest players in Falcons ...
