A year after saying goodbye to the NFL, Julio Jones says he doesn’t miss football “one bit,” crediting 13 years in the league for keeping him in great shape—and pointing to his businesses as he settles into a life built around what he wants to do now.
Julio Jones doesn’t sound like a man wondering what he gave up. He sounds like someone relieved the decision is already behind him.
When he was met at LAX, the former Atlanta Falcons star—No. 11—made it clear he isn’t looking back. “I Don’t Miss Football One Bit,” he said, adding that retirement means he can “do whatever the heck he wants now.”
Jones said he gave football his all and hasn’t reconsidered his decision to retire “one bit.” He officially walked away from the sport in April 2025, closing out a career that included several All-Pro and Pro Bowl selections, along with a spot on the 2010s All-Decade team.
A year after he said goodbye to the NFL. Jones described himself as doing well and feeling happy with where he is. He credits being “lucky to still be in great shape” after 13 years in the league. saying there aren’t any lingering physical issues—no limps or crooked fingers—holding him back as he goes through daily life.
His post-football routine is built on staying active. Jones said he’s keeping busy with basketball, running, and diving.
On top of fitness, he said he set himself up for life after football through his businesses. With that plan in place, he described himself as “just chilling” and making sure everything continues to run smoothly.
Asked whether he could return to the sport through coaching, Jones gave an answer that came with a strong message—one that fit the mood he’s carried since stepping away.
Published June 8, 2026, at 12:01 AM PDT.
Julio Jones retirement NFL Atlanta Falcons All-Pro Pro Bowl 2010s All-Decade team LAX coaching