Ex-Falcons star and New Orleans native Deion Jones anticipates a heady homecoming with the Saints

New Orleans native and former NFL linebacker Deion Jones expressed excitement for his anticipated return to the Saints, where he grew up and began his football career as a second-round draft pick from LSU in 2016. Jones, who has played for all four teams in the NFC South division during his NFL tenure, emphasized that his teammates' excitement and appreciation for the Saints' impact on the city held significant meaning for him.

After spending six seasons with the Falcons and one season in the AFC with the Cleveland Browns, Jones joined Carolina in 2023 and Tampa Bay from 2024 through last season. He currently holds the expectation of playing a comparable role in New Orleans, similar to his previous roles in Tampa Bay. The Saints head coach, Kellen Moore, noted that Jones' local roots could be an advantage but expressed no preconceived notions based on them.

Jones, a Pro Bowl player for Atlanta in 2017, has been a die-hard Saints fan throughout his career, recognizing their importance to the city and his family. He acknowledged his role in disrupting the Saints' success in the past but expressed his pride in being part of the team again. Jones attended former Saints quarterback Drew Brees' induction speech at the Pro Football Hall of Fame, recalling their rivalry and Brees' impact on New Orleans, where he led the team to the only Super Bowl victory in franchise history.