Patrick Smith/Getty Images
Veteran Detroit Lions wide receiver Marvin Jones has decided to step away from football, citing personal family matters as the reason for his departure.
Jones, who started in four games and appeared in six out of the seven games this season, made the announcement via Instagram.
Expressing gratitude for the Ford Family, the city of Detroit, his teammates, and coaches, Jones explained his difficult decision, stating that he needs to be there for his family and can’t simultaneously fulfill his role on the team.
The announcement comes at a time when the Lions, with a 5-2 record, suffered an ugly 38-6 loss to the Ravens on Sunday.
Jones, a fifth-round pick by the Bengals in the 2012 NFL Draft, has had a successful career, boasting multiple seasons with over 900+ yards and one season with 1,100+ yards.
His second stint with the Lions has been less productive, managing to catch only 5 passes for 35 yards in the six games he played this season. The 33-year-old receiver also had stints with the Jaguars.
Following Jones’ announcement, the Lions will release Jones according to Justin Rogers of the Detroit News.