What's next for former Titans center Ben Jones
Former Tennessee Titans center Ben Jones shares what’s next in his NFL journey.
In seven years with the Tennessee Titans, center Ben Jones made a name for himself as one of the toughest, most consistent, and most reliable leaders to ever put on the two-tone blue.
Jones started 108 games over his seven years in Tennessee and was an instrumental part of the Titans' success as a run-first offense. Poaching Jones from the division rival Texans on a four-year contract back in 2016 would turn out to be the best free agent signing of Jon Robinson's tenure as Titans' GM.
Now 33 and a free agent after his release from the Titans, it's time for Jones to look ahead to what's next in his NFL career.
So much was uncertain surrounding Jones this offseason. He suffered multiple concussions during the 2022 season that kept him out of five games and led many people to believing he was set to retire.
By the sound of things, though, Jones is not ready to look at retirement. When talking with Buck Reising on 104.5 The Zone earlier this week, Jones maintained that his sights are still set on a Super Bowl.
"Correct. That's what I'm going through right now," said Jones when asked if he's considering playing in 2023. "I'm trying to find the best fit for me and my family and I want to win a championship. Wherever I feel that's where I can do it, that's what I'm gonna join on."
Jones is sure to have his fair share of suitors, but where could he get the regular playing time he deserves while also competing for a championship? Let's talk about the New York Jets.
ESPN's Rich Cimini reported earlier this week that the Jets are "hoping" to sign Jones to fill their vacancy at center. 2022 starter Connor McGovern remains a free agent, but adding a Pro Bowl caliber replacement in Jones would be a nice upgrade for New York. Reports suggest that McGovern has been seeking a long-term deal on the open market, which has not been cooperative.
Jones would also have the opportunity to reunite with OL coach Keith Carter, who was hired by the Jets after being let go by Tennessee following the 2022 season.
Assuming the Aaron Rodgers trade goes through and the Jets land their veteran quarterback, it's safe to assume that they will be a legitimate contender in 2023. If Jones is still hoping to play and has aspirations of hoisting the Lombardi Trophy, New York feels like a very realistic next step.
Image via Andrew Nelles / Tennessean.com-USA TODAY NETWORK
