J. J. Jones (quarterback) facts for kids
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| Position: | Quarterback | ||||||||
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| Born: | April 16, 1952 Memphis, Tennessee |
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| Died: | July 9, 2009 (aged 57) Seattle, Washington |
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| Height: | 6 ft 1 in (1.85 m) | ||||||||
| Weight: | 190 lb (86 kg) | ||||||||
| Career information | |||||||||
| College: | Fisk | ||||||||
| Undrafted: | 1975 | ||||||||
| Career history | |||||||||
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John Eddie "J. J." Jones (born April 16, 1952 – died July 9, 2009) was an American football player. He played as a quarterback, which is like the team's leader on offense. J. J. Jones made history when he joined the New York Jets in 1975. He was the first African-American quarterback for the Jets team.
The Story of J. J. Jones
J. J. Jones was born in Memphis, Tennessee. He loved football and played in college at Fisk. After college, he hoped to play professionally.
Joining the Pros
In 1975, J. J. Jones joined the New York Jets. He was an undrafted free agent. This means a team signed him even though he wasn't picked in the main player draft. It was a big moment because he became the first African-American quarterback for the Jets.
Playing for Different Teams
After his time with the Jets, Jones continued his football career. He played for the Calgary Stampeders. This team is part of the Canadian Football League (CFL). He played with them during the 1976 and 1977 seasons. Later, he also played for the TC Jets in Binghamton, New York, from 1978 to 1980.
Life After Football
Away from the football field, J. J. Jones was a family man. He had three children. Sadly, J. J. Jones passed away in 2009. He was 57 years old.
