New Eagles cornerback Jonathan Jones made a memorable arrival in Philadelphia. On Wednesday he flew his own Daher TBM single-engine turboprop plane from Charlotte straight into Philadelphia International Airport. He did it to sign his one-year contract with the team.
Jones is a licensed pilot since April 2023. He earned the license while still with the New England Patriots. The veteran has played 11 NFL seasons. He spent the first nine with the Patriots and won Super Bowls after the 2016 and 2018 seasons.
Eagles CB Jonathan Jones Flies Himself to Philadelphia to Sign One Year Deal with Eagles
Eagles CB Jonathan Jones Flies Himself to Philadelphia to Sign One Year Deal with Eagles (Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images)
In his career Jones has appeared in 144 games with 78 starts. He owns 477 tackles, 11 interceptions, 62 pass breakups and 10 forced fumbles. The Eagles added him for depth behind Quinyon Mitchell, Cooper DeJean and new free-agent signee Riq Woolen.
Jonathon has started at least 14 games in three straight seasons earlier in his career. He also praised the Eagles for staying relevant and making the playoffs year after year. “I kind of admire what this team’s been building,” he said. At 5-foot-9 and 185 pounds he knows his role is to compete and stay available.
This unique trip shows Jones brings more than football experience to his new locker room.
Jonathan Jones Blends Aviation Passion with Depth Role
Jones opened up about his hobby during his introductory press conference. “Found a little passion for aviation a few years back,”he said. “It’s a little hobby of mine that I enjoy doing.” He grew up as a country boy who loved bikes and four-wheelers.
A friend sparked the interest by flying from Birmingham to Charlotte. Jones took a discovery flight and fell in love right away. “Hopped over from Charlotte today over to here,” he told reporters after landing. “It was a quick flight. Anytime I can fly, I love it.”
The Eagles star even started the “Jonathan Jones Next Step Foundation” to introduce kids to aviation.“I love to fly around on the field, make plays, support my teammates and just try to be a cerebral player.” Jones explained.The secondary already looks strong but Jones adds veteran reliability for 2026. His love for football runs deep. “I just love the game of football,” he added. “Every fall since I was 4 I’ve been playing.”
The signing gives Philadelphia Eagles another steady option in a loaded cornerback room.Fans already joke about “Fly Eagles Fly” taking on new meaning.