Falcons GM 'confident' in reaching new deal with Julio Jones

As the Atlanta Falcons reported to training camp this week, general manager Thomas Dimitroff expressed optimism regarding contract negotiations with Julio Jones.

"We have the utmost faith that Julio is coming here and he's taking care of his business while he's here, and we'll keep plugging away with (Jones' agent) Jimmy (Sexton),'' Dimitroff told ESPN's Vaughn McClure. "We have a very good working relationship and respect for Jimmy Sexton and CAA, and I'm confident (the deal) will get done.''

After threatening to hold out prior to the 2018 season, the Falcons assured Jones they would redo his contract and satisfied the six-time Pro Bowler with a temporary pay raise. The star wideout decided to attend training camp Monday despite not having a new long-term deal in place.

Jones, who led the NFL with 1,677 receiving yards last season, is hoping to become the NFL's highest-paid receiver. Dimitroff, for his part, appeared open to the idea.

"Julio's been nothing but great with us over the years,'' he said. "Even last year, when it got a little bit dusty during that time, we were able to sit down and work through it. I thought we worked through it cleanly.

"We understand being the highest-paid receiver in the NFL. And the fact that Julio is approaching it the way he is is appreciated. That said, we expect nothing less from Julio Jones, one of our main leaders on this team.''

Jones' current deal runs through the 2020 campaign. Atlanta recently extended defensive tackle Grady Jarrett and linebacker Deion Jones.

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