Julio Jones Explains Unique Practice Regimen
August 18th, 2022
Julio Jones may not be the Tom Brady of receivers, but he’s approaching that ballpark, and he’s certainly motivated and in fantastic shape for his 12th NFL season.
Joe finally got 1-on-1 time with Julio. One subject was his unique practice regimen on the Jugs machine (which spits balls out to receivers for practice). Julio gets within two feet of it and often is moving around, whereas other receiver or defensive backs just pick a spot and catch the balls.
For Julio, everything is about achieving greatness. And he says that doesn’t happen standing still.
“I always just try to move and adjust because you’ll never be standing flat-footed catching a pass. So I don’t want to create bad habits,” Julio said. “You know, that’s why I’m always stepping forward and moving closer and closer. On shallow routes, quick screens, things like that, the ball can get up on you quick so just practice for it — all scenarios.”
Julio also works during special teams periods when most receivers are resting. He did the latter during both days of the Bucs practicing in Tennessee today and Wednesday.
That’s not the norm for a 33-year-old receiver.
“That’s just me. Any way I can try to get better and work on getting better. If the opportunity is there, I don’t like to stand around and do nothing,” Julio said. “My job is to catch the football in tough situations and all situations. The more and more you do it, it comes easy to you.”
Joe never watched Jones practice before he arrived in Tampa, but he sure looks the part of a superstar. It’s hard to tell if he’s lost a step because the Bucs aren’t pushing him with go routes in August.
But when the time comes, Joe suspects Julio will be prepared.
Flash poll posted at 2:11 p.m.
August 18th, 2022 at 2:17 pm
Fingers crossed just stay healthy. We know what he can do when he’s not hurt. Seen it with my own eyes against our Bucs.
August 18th, 2022 at 2:21 pm
I will admit, it sounds as though this guy could be dangerous provided he stays healthy.
ME, Gage, CG and Julio???
Why even run the darn ball…
I would come out swinging 4 wide for a few plays/ist downs on quick routes. then switch to 3WR and TE and then bang them a gain until the back off and then unleash up the gut.
BL is an idiot play caller. I said it.
he still thinks this is a run 1st offense and/or they can win in the trenches with an OL that is still coming up to speed. and no, I am not worried about TB getting killed in passing on wide sets. the ball will be out in 2 seconds.
August 18th, 2022 at 2:25 pm
All well and good. Most of the greats have unique, and purpose driven practice habits. I don’t think anyone is questioning his focus and ability, just his health. Hamstrings have a tendency to get tighter as recievers like him age.
Joe, I would ask Julio if he’s changed anything as far as body conditioning. Say what you want about Alex Guerrero, but the guys is a wizard with soft tissue injuries and prevention. A little concussion water intake never hurts either. If he can stay healthy, Jones could be a serious contributor.
August 18th, 2022 at 2:46 pm
Please post a video of him catching balls 2 feet from the jugs machine. We gotta see that.
August 18th, 2022 at 3:25 pm
Even if Julio has lost a step….he’ll still be good for us.
August 18th, 2022 at 3:57 pm
Stay healthy Julio. I’m starting to believe. Everyone should be concerned by my attitude.
August 18th, 2022 at 7:19 pm
On Shaq Barrett’s IG today, Julio looks comfy on the team bus lol