Not long ago, fans used to see the Miami Dolphins cornerback Byron Jones light up the playing field. When Jones entered the NFL, he was regarded as an athletic wonder by the fans. Playing alongside teammate Xavien Howard, they formed one of the most formidable cornerback duos in the division. They were truly a sight to behold.
But after constantly battling injuries, it seems that Byron Jones’ journey at the highest level has slowly come to an end. The CB has confirmed that he can no longer run or jump because of all the injuries he has faced in the NFL. Why did the 30-year-old hung up his boots?
Byron Jones retires at 30
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On Saturday, Byron Jones took to Twitter to share a heart wrenching tweet to his fans. The 30-year-old CB wrote about how playing in the NFL was a dream come true. But at the same time, the dreams came with inevitable consequences. Jones further talked about how players should be cautious about the pills and injections the NFL gives. According to the screenshots shared by BroBible’s Dov Kleiman, Jones wrote, “…DO NOT take the pills they give you. DO NOT take the injections they give you…” in his retirement announcement.
Update: #Dolphins CB Byron Jones appears to retire from the NFL at age 30.
The former #Cowboys 1st round pick says he can no longer "run or jump" because of injuries sustained playing in the NFL.
Recommends to other players not to take injections the league offers them. pic.twitter.com/wQdfupt9Jt
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) February 25, 2023
Fans were shocked as he tweeted about his retirement from the game. While some fans blamed the Dolphins staff for his condition, others empathized with his situation.
Crazy, as he was one of the most athletic players in NFL history.
— W. (@WadeShine) February 25, 2023
Player treatment in the NFL needs to be investigated.
— DeeJay Johnson (@Go_DeeJay21) February 25, 2023
Being a UCONN fan, I watched a lot of him and was a phenomenal naturally gifted talent. Met him a couple of times and an incredible guy
— John “Supi” Supowitz (@ImThatSupi) February 25, 2023
Bro was one of the most athletic players in NFL history. Football players always get my respect man. Put ya body on the line even when you practicing
— BronFanatic (@DepressedSteelo) February 25, 2023
Dolphins what’s going on with your medical staff??
— Jason Cora (@jcoraa02) February 25, 2023
Do we have to look closer to the Dolphins medical team again?
— Champion (@1Champion2016) February 25, 2023
Despite the reactions, his decision may not surprise many in the NFL realm. Jones has spent the entire 2022 season dealing with an offseason surgery for his Achilles and ankle injury issues. He did not play a single game, as he was deemed unfit to be on the field.
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Read more: ‘It’s Exciting’ – Dolphins Cornerback Byron Jones Expects Big Things From QB Tua Tagovailoa
Rest and recuperation for the future
After the recent scare the Dolphins had with Tua Tagovailoa and his concussion, Jones might be making a smart decision for himself. At 30, the body transforms and changes. But with injuries sustained like the CB has, the body takes a while to heal and become physically fit again. The best investment we can ever make is in our own health. So maybe Jones should consider taking care and investing in his health as well.
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The road ahead never gets easier. As for Byron Jones, we wish to see him overcome the hurdles in his life at the moment as well, and enjoy a successful career away from the rigors of the gridiron.