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Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones made a bold move last week. He had a big decision to make, and he made it. Maybe he made that decision on his own. He’s earned all his guaranteed money, and the Falcons just drafted college football’s best wide receiver. Julio is a smart, saavy guy, and the writing is arguably on the wall. That said, it’s likely he made the decision in consultation with others. (Thanks a lot, Terrell!)
No matter who you ask, this is all going to work out. Whether you believe the whispers about a frustrated front office or not, no one is foretelling a trade, a release, etc. Julio will show up for training camp, put in the work, and continue catching Matt Ryan passes for the foreseeable future.
In his seven years as a professional football player, Julio has garnered an impeccable reputation. We’ve seen him put his body on the line ad nauseum. We’ve seen him summon from the depths of his soul an uncanny ability to play through injuries time after time. He’s a freak - it’s that simple. So the question is how his current predicament affects that reputation.
It’s not an easy question to answer, because the answer depends on who is answering the question. Still following me? Good; I’m about to get to my point. And here it is: no matter how you feel about the Julio holdout, it can be forgotten. He can get more money, he can keep playing unbelievable football, and all could be right in the world. But what does that look like for you? How easily can you get to that point? If you’re personally deeply offended by his current approach, does he need to be the next Super Bowl MVP to make it up to you? I’m genuinely curious where you stand. Discuss!