Detroit Lions Release Wide Receiver Marvin Jones Jr.

The Detroit Lions have released veteran wide receiver Marvin Jones Jr., who says he is stepping away from the team to deal with family matters.

Jones announced the news via an Instagram post. 

“To be brief, I am stepping away from the team to care of personal family matters,” the post read. “Although this was no easy decision, I cannot be the person [and] player that I need to be for this team as well as tend to my family from afar.”

“This organization has been amazing [in] showing love and support for myself and my family over the years and this time is no different,” he added. “For that I am appreciative. To my brothers and coaches, I will be rooting for you every step of the way! This is the year! Go get it!” 

Jones signed with Detroit in April. Despite this, he moved his family from Miami to San Diego, as he planned to sign with a West Coast team prior to signing with Detroit.

He had five catches for 35 yards in six games this season. He did not travel with the team during its most recent game against the Baltimore Ravens.

The Lions, who are 5-2, will host the Las Vegas Raiders on Monday Night Football.