Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
GLENDALE – Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Zay Jones had a career low in targets (11), catches (eight) and receiving yards (84) in his first season with the team. After being suspended for the first five weeks by the NFL for violating the league’s personal conduct policy, Jones never recovered and nearly had a career-ending season. However, the team re-signed Jones despite the struggles, which has enlightened the 30-year-old on his role ahead of the 2025 season.
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Dec 28, 2024; Inglewood, California, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Zay Jones (17) reacts during the game against the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Jones on mindset for 2nd season with Cardinals:
“You have this commitment for a common goal. That’s what makes this team unique for me as opposed to other experiences. No NFL front office pays players they don’t need. It’s beautiful to have support from not only your coaches but your peers. It carries a lot of weight.”
Arizona Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon talks to players on the sideline during the team’s practice at State Farm Stadium on July 29, 2025. Syndication: Arizona Republic
Head coach Jonathan Gannon stated he “loves” Jones and believes that has become acclimated with quarterback Kyler Murray so far this training camp. The nine-year NFL wide receiver is easily the most experienced in his position room, with teammates like Marvin Harrison Jr. and Michael Wilson only in their first few years.
Jones understands statistically he needs to be better, but that only comes by doing the right things. The former 2nd-round pick is only two seasons removed from a career season with the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he recorded 82 catches for 823 yards and five touchdowns.
Dec 22, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Zay Jones (17) looks on during the first quarter against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
While perhaps past his prime, Jones is open to taking a leadership role on offense and being an example for his teammates. Arizona is giving Jones a second chance after a rough 2024 season, and he isn’t taking the opportunity lightly looking to not only improve his counting stats but making a positive impact on a team striving for a postseason berth.
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
