Marvin Maurice Jones, born on June 28, 1972, is a former Florida State middle linebacker. Jones played college football for the Florida State Seminoles, achieving great recognition and success. He was a two-time consensus All-American and won prestigious awards such as the Butkus and Lombardi in 1992. In the 1993 NFL Draft, Jones was selected in the first round as the fourth overall pick by the New York Jets, where he played his entire professional career. After retiring as a player, Jones transitioned to coaching and has held various coaching positions in indoor football leagues, including serving as the head coach for the Omaha Beef and the Cedar Rapids Titans. Since 2023, Jones has been appointed the head coach of the Tulsa Oilers in the Indoor Football League (IFL).
During his college years at Florida State University, Jones made a significant impact as a linebacker. He played for the Seminoles from 1990 to 1992 and was part of a successful team winning the Atlantic Coast Conference championship 1992. Jones earned multiple accolades, including being named a consensus first-team All-American in both 1991 and 1992. He also received the Lombardi Award and was recognized as the College Football Player of the Year by Sporting News in 1992. His exceptional performance and contributions to the Seminoles led to his induction into the FSU Hall of Fame in 2000 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 2022.
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Jones played his entire professional career in the NFL with the New York Jets from 1993 to 2003. Known by his teammates as "Shade Tree," Jones showcased his talent and became a key figure in the Jets' defense. Over his eleven seasons, he amassed impressive statistics, including 1,021 tackles, nine sacks, five interceptions, and numerous forced fumbles and fumble recoveries. Jones was highly regarded for his athleticism, versatility, and toughness on the field. He earned Pro Bowl honors in 1997 and was named to the NFL All-Decade Team for the 2000s. Jones retired from professional football in 2005 after spending his final season with the Dallas Cowboys.
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In addition to his football career, Jones has made a significant impact off the field. He has been involved in coaching at various levels, including serving as a head coach and defensive coordinator in indoor football leagues. Jones has also been active in his community and has engaged in charitable work, supporting organizations that aim to empower underprivileged children and families. His dedication to the game of football as a player and coach has solidified his legacy as one of the greatest linebackers in Florida State and NFL history.
MARVIN JONES
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