The Jacksonville Jaguars have re-signed fourth-year defensive tackle Abry Jones to a four-year contract, the club announced today.
"I'm excited to be back with the Jaguars after earning a spot on the team four years ago," said Jones. "Coach Wash has believed in me since day one and I'm looking forward to what the future holds with him continuing as my defensive coordinator. I'm also glad to be back with my teammates and we're even hungrier this year to improve as a unit and as a team. I'm going to celebrate this incredible opportunity with my family and friends and then it's time to get back to work."
Jones, 6-4, 318, has appeared in 54 games with 11 starts since originally signing with the team as an undrafted rookie on April 27, 2013. Jones has totaled 96 tackles (64 solo), including 10 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks and four passes defensed. In 2016, Jones started a career-high nine games and finished with 32 tackles, the second-most of his four-year career. On Oct. 20 at Detroit, Jones tied his career-high with five tackles against the Lions.
"Abry is an example of a player who has taken advantage of every practice and every snap and we are pleased to have him back in a Jaguars uniform in 2017," said Jaguars General Manager Dave Caldwell. "He is a tough, versatile player who brings a lot of value and flexibility to our defensive line. When Abry stepped in as the starter this season, he made an immediate impact and attacked the role head-on. He has earned everything he has achieved since joining the team as a UDFA in 2017 and he continues to improve each season. We are excited for him and his family to enjoy this moment and we look forward to his continued success moving forward."
A three-year letterman at Georgia, Jones appeared in 46 games and totaled 107 tackles and 13.5 tackles for loss for the Bulldogs. Jones, who majored in communications studies, received the team's David Jacobs Award, given annually to a player who portrays courage, spirit, character and determination. The Warner Robins, Ga. native attended Northside (Ga.) High School and was a USA Today All-USA second-team selection. Jones can be mentioned on Twitter using the handle, @JustAB3.
