Why did Byron Jones retire? Tracing Cowboys star's tragic fall from stardom

Byron Jones had a successful career in the NFL, but it all came at a cost. Jones last played in the NFL in the 2021 season for the Miami Dolphins. The Pro Bowl cornerback explained on Twitter why he is no longer playing in the league. Jones also gave a powerful message to future NFL players about what to put and what not to put into their bodies.

Jones said:

"It was an honor and privilege to play in the NFL but it came at a regrettable cost I did not foresee. In my opinion, no amount of professional success or financial gain is worth avoidable chronic pain and disabilities. Godspeed to the draft class of 2023."

However, a source told ESPN that Byron Jones is not retiring. He underwent surgery last March to fix a persistent injury he was dealing with throughout the 2021 season. The same source also told ESPN at the time that Jones was expected to be ready for training camp last July.

He was never taken off the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list by the Dolphins.

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Byron Jones and his career in the NFL

Jones was drafted in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys. He played the first five seasons of his career with the Cowboys. He had 349 total tackles, three forced fumbles, and two interceptions in 79 games with the team.

The Dolphins signed the cornerback to a five-year, $82.5 million contract in March 2020. Jones has 95 total tackles, two forced fumbles, and two interceptions in 30 career games with Miami.

Byron Jones will cost the Dolphins $18.3 million in cap space next season. However, by cutting or trading him after June 1, the team could save $13.6 million. We'll see if Jones decides to return to Miami for the 2023 season or if his time with the team is up.

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