The Buffalo Bills are bolstering their roster with the addition of a former Pro Bowl linebacker as they aim to reach a total of 90 players. Deion Jones, a 29-year-old linebacker and former second-round pick of the Atlanta Falcons in the 2016 NFL Draft, has signed a one-year contract with the team. In his initial seasons, Jones showcased immense potential, tallying impressive stats including 108 total tackles, three interceptions, two defensive touchdowns, 11 passes defensed, and one forced fumble as a rookie. His stellar performance extended into the postseason, where he contributed significantly with 10 passes defensed, one interception, and one forced fumble across three games, earning him recognition on the Pro Football Writers of America All-Rookie Team.

In his second season, Jones achieved career highs in total tackles with 138, maintaining his three interceptions streak from the previous year. Additionally, he secured 10 passes defensed and marked his first sack. Jones also contributed five passes defensed in two playoff games in 2017, earning himself a Pro Bowl nod by the season’s end.

However, a foot injury hampered Jones’ performance in 2018, limiting him to just six games where he managed 53 total tackles, two interceptions, and one defensive score.

Despite maintaining a high level of play through the 2020 season, Jones seemed to experience a decline in performance in 2021, despite posting respectable stats including 137 total tackles, six passes defensed, two sacks, and one forced fumble.

In 2022, a shoulder injury led to Jones being placed on the injured reserve by the Falcons, who eventually traded him to the Cleveland Browns in October of that year. After being activated from the IR by Cleveland, Jones showcased his skills with 2.5 sacks, 44 total tackles, one interception, three passes defended, and one forced fumble in 11 games, five of which he started.

Following the season, Cleveland decided not to retain Jones, leading him to sign with the Carolina Panthers in late July. Despite initially failing to secure a spot on the team’s 53-man roster, Jones was later elevated to the main roster in late September. He contributed 35 total tackles, one sack, one interception, and six passes defensed in 13 games, three of which he started.

Now in Buffalo, Jones will vie for a backup role behind Matt Milano and Terrel Bernard. His competition includes Dorian Williams, Nicholas Morrow, Baylon Spector, and draft pick Edefuan Ulofoshio.