Detroit Lions veteran wide receiver Marvin Jones Jr shocked many in the NFL world on Tuesday, as he has decided to step away from the game. In a statement posted to his Instagram account, Jones revealed that he's stepping away from football to take care of a family matter, per Ari Meirov on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Jones said the following in a statement. “I just want to say that I have so much love and respect for the Ford Family, the city of Detroit, my teammates and coaches. To be brief, I am stepping away from the team to take care of personal family matters.”
Jones goes on to say that he cannot be the player he needs to be for the Lions while attempting to take care of this urgent family matter.
Marvin Jones' Week 7 absence gains clarity
It makes a bit more sense why Jones, who was a full participant at practice all week, was not able to suit up for the Week 7 loss to the Baltimore Ravens.
The Lions ruled Jones out on Saturday for undisclosed personal reasons, and the veteran wideout did not make the trip to Baltimore for the contest against the Ravens.
Here's hoping for the best for Jones and his family.
What Marvin Jones' absence means for Lions
Jones, 33, has tallied just five receptions for 35 receiving yards in six games played this season, as he has taken a backseat to the likes of Amon-Ra St. Brown, Sam LaPorta and Josh Reynolds in the Lions passing game.
But Jones, who spent each of the last two seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars, has proven to be a reliable target in his NFL career, exceeding the 800-yard receiving mark five times while posting the best numbers of his career for Detroit back in 2017.
Not only that, but Jones has been lauded by many, including the Jaguars as recently as in August, for his leadership abilities.
Unfortunately, Jones won't be helping the Lions for the rest of the season, as Detroit released the veteran wideout shortly after he issued his statement.
Thoughts and prayers go out to Jones and his family.
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