Zay Jones, known for his impressive performance as an NFL wide receiver, surprises many fans with the fact that “Zay” isn’t his real name. Born Isaiah Avery Jones, “Zay” is a nickname derived from “Isaiah” and has been with him since childhood.
Understanding this detail provides deeper insight into his background and the journey that has shaped him into the professional athlete he is today.
Jones’ career has been characterized by dedication and resilience, attributes influenced by his strong family ties and the legacy of his father, former NFL linebacker Robert Jones.
This understanding enriches the narrative of Zay Jones beyond the field—a player with a rich heritage and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Off the field, Isaiah Avery Jones has made a name for himself through his charitable endeavors and community involvement. His dedication extends beyond football, reflecting his character and values instilled by his family upbringing.
Who is Zay Jones?
Isaiah Avery “Zay” Jones is an American professional football player. He performs as a wide receiver for the Arizona Cardinals in the National Football League (NFL). Jones showcased his talents at East Carolina University, where he played college football.
During his college career, he demonstrated impressive skills and set multiple records, earning recognition as an outstanding player.
Jones holds a noteworthy position in the NFL due to his consistent performances and dedication. With a strong college background and a professional career, he stands out among his peers.
His journey from East Carolina to the NFL highlights his determination and hard work. Fans admire Jones for his athletic ability and commitment to the sport.
Zay Jones’ Early Life and Real Name
Isaiah Avery “Zay” Jones, born on March 30, 1995, in Dallas, Texas, comes from a football-centric family. His father, Robert Jones, was an NFL linebacker, and his uncle, Jeff Blake, was a former NFL quarterback.
Zay showcased his football skills at Stephen F. Austin High School in Austin, Texas, which led him to East Carolina University, where he set multiple receiving records. His nickname “Zay” simplifies his real name while adding a unique touch to his identity.
This combination of family heritage and personal branding has been pivotal in his NFL recognition.
College Football Career
Zay Jones had a stellar college football career at East Carolina University. His performance set impressive benchmarks, earning him recognition across various platforms.
Achievements and Records
Zay Jones set multiple records during his time at East Carolina University. Notably, he broke the single-season reception record with 158 catches in 2016.
Jones also became the NCAA Division I FBS all-time leader in career receptions, amassing 399 catches by the end of his college career. Also, he received First-Team All-American honors in 2016 and was a finalist for the Biletnikoff Award, given to the nation’s top receiver.
His consistency and work ethic established him as one of the top wide receivers in college football history.
Career Statistics
Jones’ college career at East Carolina University was marked by exceptional performance, with 399 receptions for 4,279 yards and an average of 10.7 yards per catch over four years.
He scored 23 touchdowns, achieving his highest single-season yardage in 2016 with 1,746 yards on 158 receptions. These stats showcase his elite skills and contribution to the team.
Despite his achievements, many fans are curious about his real identity: Zay Jones’ real name is Isaiah Avery Jones, the son of former NFL linebacker Robert Jones.
NFL Career
Isaiah Avery “Zay” Jones transitioned from a stellar college career to the NFL with strong aspirations. His journey in the professional league began excitingly.
Draft and Teams
In 2017, the Buffalo Bills selected Zay Jones in the second round of the NFL Draft, 37th overall. He played with the Bills from 2017 to 2019, recording 90 receptions for 1,037 yards and 9 touchdowns.
In October 2019, the Bills traded him to the Oakland Raiders (now Las Vegas Raiders). With the Raiders, Jones continued to contribute as a wide receiver, amassing 47 receptions for 546 yards and a touchdown from 2019 to 2021.
He signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2022, aiming to enhance their wide receiver depth.
Highlights and Milestones
Jones’s NFL career includes several notable highlights. In his rookie season with the Bills, he had 316 receiving yards and 2 touchdowns. His best season with the Bills came in 2018, achieving 652 receiving yards and 7 touchdowns.
With the Raiders, Jones recorded 147 receiving yards in a single game against the Denver Broncos in 2020. As of the 2021 season, he started in 9 games and averaged 14.8 yards per catch.
His growing contributions underscore his consistent effort and adaptability in the NFL.
Personal Life
Zay Jones, known for his NFL career, has a rich personal life that includes an interesting family background and various off-field interests.
Family Background
Zay Jones comes from a family with a strong football pedigree. His father, Robert Jones, played linebacker in the NFL and won three Super Bowl titles with the Dallas Cowboys.
His brother, Cayleb Jones, also pursued a career in football and spent time with several NFL teams, including the Minnesota Vikings. Also, his uncle Jeff Blake was a Pro Bowl quarterback, making football a central part of the family legacy.
Off-field Interests
Off the field, Zay Jones enjoys engaging in various activities. He’s an avid reader, appreciating literature that spans genres and themes. He frequently shares his reading lists with fans, encouraging a culture of literacy.
Also, he practices yoga, which helps maintain his physical and mental well-being, crucial for his athletic performance. Exploring new music is another passion, with his playlists integrating diverse musical styles and artists, contributing to his well-rounded personal interests.
Contract and Earnings
Zay Jones, known for his impressive performance on the football field, has earned significant contracts and career earnings since joining the NFL.
Current Contract Details
As of 2022, Zay Jones signed a three-year contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars worth $24 million. The contract includes $14 million guaranteed and an average annual salary of $8 million.
Jones’s lucrative deal reflects his value to the team and his consistent contributions. Born Isaiah Avery Jones, Zay Jones has shown remarkable skill as a wide receiver since his college days at East Carolina University. His performance with the Jaguars further cements his reputation.
Career Earnings
Throughout his NFL career, Zay Jones has accumulated substantial earnings. His rookie contract with the Buffalo Bills, signed in 2017, was worth approximately $6.77 million over four years.
This contract included $3.98 million guaranteed with a signing bonus of $3.07 million. After joining the Oakland Raiders in 2019, Jones earned over $1.64 million during his tenure.
| Team | Contract Value | Guaranteed Amount | Signing Bonus | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buffalo Bills (2017) | $6.77 million | $3.98 million | $3.07 million | $1.69 million |
| Oakland Raiders (2019) | $1.64 million | — | — | — |
| Jacksonville Jaguars (2022) | $24 million | $14 million | — | $8 million |
Jones’s financial success is a testament to his hard work and talent on the field.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Zay Jones’ uncle?
Zay Jones’s uncle is Jeff Blake, who played as an NFL quarterback for 14 seasons from 1992 to 2005, including a stint as the starting quarterback for the Arizona Cardinals in 2003.
What was Zay Jones’ 40 time?
Zay Jones recorded a 4.45-second 40-yard dash during the 2017 NFL Draft. Additionally, his 11 ft 1-inch broad jump and 4.01-second 20-yard shuttle placed him among the top-performing wide receivers.
Which teams has Zay Jones played for?
Zay Jones has played for the Buffalo Bills, Oakland Raiders, and currently, he is a wide receiver for the Jacksonville Jaguars.
How much does Zay Jones weigh?
Zay Jones weighs 200 pounds (90.7 kg).
What is Zay Jones’ contract?
Zay Jones signed a three-year, $24 million contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars on March 14, 2022. The contract includes an $8 million average annual salary, a $5.5 million signing bonus, and $14 million in guaranteed money.
Conclusion
Zay Jones’s journey in the NFL is a testament to his dedication and talent. His impressive career, marked by significant achievements and transitions between teams, showcases his resilience and adaptability.
Beyond football, Jones’s interests in reading, yoga, and music reveal a multifaceted individual with a rich family legacy in the sport. His recent lucrative contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars underscores his value and commitment to the game.
As he continues to excel on and off the field, Zay Jones remains a prominent figure in professional football, inspiring both fans and aspiring athletes.
However, many fans might not know that “Zay” is actually a nickname. His full name is Isaiah Avery Jones. This little-known fact adds another layer to the intriguing story of a player who continues to captivate audiences with his skill and character.
Ashley Hopkinson