Julio Jones is considered by many to be one of the NFL's elite wide receivers. Even by the players, who voted him the 13th-best player in the NFL Network's "Top 100 Players of 2015" countdown.
At No. 13, Jones is the third-highest rated receiver in the league, according to voters, and placed ahead of other notable receivers such as Dez Bryant and former Georgia Tech star Demaryius Thomas. In addition to Jones' ranking, last week Pro Football Focus announced that Matt Ryan led the league in passing accuracy on deep throws last season.
This off-season, the Falcons have introduced a new coaching staff. One thing the team hopes doesn't change, however, is the play from Jones and Ryan who could become one of the best quarterback-receiver tandems in the NFL.
Don't believe it? Here are some of the best plays from Ryan and Jones since the two became teammates in 2011.
5 - There weren't many bright spots for the Falcons in 2014, but against Arizona in Week 13 Ryan and Jones gave fans something to cheer about. With six minutes left in the first quarter, and the Falcons leading by 10, Ryan connected with Jones for an impressive 32-yard touchdown. Atlanta would go on to win 29-18.
4 - In a 2013 win against the St. Louis Rams in Week 2, Jones put together a truly memorable performance. The receiver caught 11 passes for 182 yards, matching his career high at the time, including this 81-yard touchdown pass from Ryan.
3 - During the Falcons' 2012 NFC South Division run, their 34-0 shutout win over the New York Giants was just one of the team's many highlights. Early in the third quarter, with the team leading 17-0, Jones sprinted past his defender and caught a deep ball for a 40-yard touchdown.
2 - After defeating the Seattle Seahawks in the 2013 NFC Divisional Round, the Falcons hosted the NFC Championship Game for the first time in franchise history. With the country watching, Ryan and Jones displayed their dynamic play-making abilities.
1 - Despite battling multiple injuries during his rookie season, Jones had a break-out game in Week 9 against the Indianapolis Colts. The rookie receiver caught three passes for 131 yards and 2 touchdowns, including a diving 50-yard catch while surrounded by three defenders.
For the latest information on the Atlanta Falcons as the season approaches, be sure to check out the team's page on AJC.com
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