Alabama Native Julio Jones Continues to Shape Black History

Townsquare Media Tuscaloosa, 92.9 WTUG, Praise 93.3, 105.1 The Block, and the Tuscaloosa Thread are proud to present the 2024 Black History Makers of Alabama.

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The Yellowhammer State is filled with great African American leaders from the past, present, and future. We thank our West Alabama community partners, the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, Delta Phi Lambda Chapter, and the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Eta Xi Omega Chapter, for their continued support.

Black History Maker of Alabama - Julio Jones

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He was born Quintorris Lopez Jones, but most Crimson Tide fans would know him as Julio Jones. Julio grew up in the community of Foley, Alabama. Julio’s parents are Quintorris Lopez Jones Sr. and Queen Marvin.

Life wasn’t an easy journey for Jones at an early age, with his father leaving the family. Julio’s mother stepped in to support Julio and his younger brother.

Julio became known as a student-athlete for his high school football team, the Foley Lions. During his time at Foley, he caught passes for over 1300 yards. Football wasn’t the only thing that Julio excelled at. He received many accolades for his performance in basketball and track and field.

When his high school career ended, Julio committed to playing football for then-head football coach Nick Saban and the Alabama Crimson Tide. Julio was a member of the 2009 Tide squad, defeating Texas and claiming the 13th National championship for the University of Alabama.

The College football stage was one of many places Julio would shine. Jones was drafted in the first round of the 2011 NFL draft by the Atlanta Falcons, where he stayed until 2020. During his time as an Atlanta Falcon, he scored 60 touchdowns, accumulated over 12,000 yards receiving, and played in the 2016 Super Bowl.

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In 2021, Julio Jones was traded to the Tennessee Titans and spent the season there before being released from the Titans.

In 2022, Jones signed with the Tampa Bay Bucs but was released at the end of the season.

The Journey is still ongoing for the 13-year NFL veteran. Jones was signed to a one-year deal by the Philadelphia Eagles in 2023.

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Julio Jones is a black history maker because he continues to show that with determination and focus, dreams can come true.

Be sure to download our free app for more details on the Black History Makers of Alabama.

2023 Black History Makers of Alabama

2022 Black History Makers of Alabama

Gallery Credit: Mary K

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