Report: Falcons, Julio Jones getting closer to new contract

The Atlanta Falcons could finalize a new contract with Pro Bowl wide receiver Julio Jones in the next few weeks, according to The Athletic's Jeff Schultz.

Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff told reporters Thursday he's had conversations with Jones' camp about a new deal but stopped short of offering a timeline for when he expects an agreement to be struck, according to ESPN's Vaughn McClure.

Jones has been seeking a new contract since last spring. He was on the verge of holding out until Atlanta increased his salary before training camp and assured him it would renegotiate his contract after the campaign.

The 30-year-old was a Pro Bowler for the sixth time in 2018 after posting 113 receptions for 1,677 yards and eight touchdowns.

Jones has two years and $21 million left on his existing contract, but none of his remaining salary is guaranteed.