Wide receiver Donald Jones scheduled a few visits with other teams after his release by the Patriots last month, but he won’t be joining any of them for the 2013 season.
Jones announced via Twitter on Wednesday that he will be retiring from the NFL because of a kidney disease that he has had for his entire life.
“As some of you may know, I have been suffering from a kidney disease throughout my entire life,” Jones wrote. “As a result of recent advances in my disease, I am no longer able to pursue my career in the National Football League. Playing in the NFL was a lifelong dream of mine, and though I have the opportunity to continue my career, stepping away from the game is absolute best decision for my family and for my health.”
Jones signed with the Bills as an undrafted free agent in 2010 and caught 82 passes for 887 yards and six touchdowns during his three years with the team. He signed a three-year deal with the Patriots as a free agent, but his stay was a brief one that turned out to be his final days in an NFL uniform. We hope Jones is able to enjoy a long, happy and healthy life and wish him the best in his fight against the disease.
