Julio Jones, one of the greatest players in Atlanta Falcons history, changed the game during his time with the team from 2011 to 2020. Known for his size, speed, and hard work, he finished his Falcons career with 848 catches, 12,896 yards, and 60 touchdowns. He made seven Pro Bowls, was named one of the league’s best twice, and set a team record with 1,871 receiving yards in 2015. Julio’s leadership and clutch plays, like his unforgettable catch in Super Bowl LI, made him a fan favorite and a true Falcons legend. Because of his impact, some fans are upset that Jalon Walker is now wearing Julio’s famous No. 11 jersey, which many feel should be honored.
Walker To Wear No.11
While fans are excited about Walker joining the Falcons and hope he can be a strong addition to the team, many feel he’s still unproven and has a lot to prove before wearing such an iconic number. Jones didn’t just wear No. 11—he made it legendary in Atlanta. Some fans believe that out of respect for everything Jones did for the franchise, his number should be retired or at least kept off the field for now. They want Walker to make his own mark, but not by wearing a number tied so closely to one of the team’s all-time greats.
Walker shared his thoughts on wearing the No. 11 jersey, a number deeply connected to Jones’ legacy in Atlanta. “Most definitely an honor and I’ll take it as serious as much as I can,” Walker said. “But I’m glad to keep my tradition alive—been wearing number 11 since high school.” While fans may have mixed feelings, Walker clearly respects the weight that comes with the number and is committed to honoring it while continuing his own journey in the NFL.