Marvin Jones Jr. Stepping Away from Detroit Lions

Jones is focusing on a family matter.

Detroit Lions wide receiver Marvin Jones announced Tuesday that he is stepping away from the Lions to focus on a family matter. 

The veteran wide receiver, who returned to Detroit on a one-year contract this past offseason, made the announcement in a social media post. He will officially be released Tuesday as the result of an agreement with the team, per reports.

"I just want to say that I have so much love and respect for the Ford family, the city of Detroit, my teammates and coaches. To be brief, I am stepping away from the team to take care of personal family matters," Jones wrote. "Although this was no easy decision, I cannot be the person/player that I need to be for this team as well as tend to my family from afar. This organization has been amazing showing love and support for myself and my family over the years and this time is no different. For that I am appreciative. To my brothers and coaches, I will be rooting for you every step of the way! This is the year! Go get it!" 

Jones missed the Lions' Week 7 game against Baltimore for personal reasons, beginning his absence. Coach Dan Campbell declined to comment further when asked Monday. 

The wide receiver totaled five catches for 35 yards in six games this season. The campaign marked his second stint in Detroit, as the first spanned five seasons (2016-2020). 

In total, the veteran has logged 11 professional seasons. He's caught 547 career passes for 7,421 yards and 58 touchdowns. 

The Lions released Jones, and placed Mohamed Ibrahim on the practice squad injured list. In a corresponding move, they signed running back Jermar Jefferson to the practice squad.