Jones attended Louisiana State University (LSU), where he played college football for the LSU Tigers. His performance at LSU was impressive, earning him the reputation of being one of the top quarterbacks in college football during his tenure. In 1972, he was awarded the Sammy Baugh Trophy, which is given annually to the nation's top collegiate passer.
In the 1973 NFL Draft, the Baltimore Colts selected Jones as the second overall pick. His entry into the NFL marked the beginning of a career that would see him become one of the league's most talented quarterbacks of the era. Jones quickly became known for his powerful throwing arm and his ability to read defenses, which made him a formidable opponent on the field.
Jones's most remarkable season came in 1976 when he led the Colts to an 11-3 record. That year, he threw for 3,104 yards and 24 touchdowns, earning him the NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. His performance was instrumental in the Colts winning the AFC East division title. The 1976 season highlighted Jones's ability to lead and inspire his team, showcasing his skills as a quarterback.
Throughout his career with the Colts, Jones was known for his toughness and resilience, often playing through injuries that would sideline other players. Despite facing numerous physical challenges, he consistently delivered strong performances, earning the respect of teammates and opponents alike.
Injuries, however, began to take a toll on Jones's career. He suffered a significant shoulder injury in 1978, which affected his performance and limited his playing time in subsequent seasons. Despite these setbacks, Jones continued to demonstrate his skill and determination whenever he was on the field.
In 1982, Jones was traded to the Los Angeles Rams, where he played for one season before retiring from professional football. His time with the Rams was brief, and he decided to step away from the game after the 1982 season.
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