What happened to Marvin Jones Jr's family? Lions WR announces major NFL decision 

Atlanta Falcons v Detroit Lions
What happened to Marvin Jones Jr? Lions WR announces major NFL decision

Detroit Lions wide receiver Marvin Jones Jr. made a rather abrupt announcement on Tuesday, Oct. 24, notifying the team that he will be stepping away from football.

Jones wrote on social media (via Arye Pulli):

"I am stepping away from the team to take care of personal family matters. 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."

Jones Jr. added that he appreciates the love Detroit has shown him, stating that he will be rooting for the Lions for the rest of the campaign.

Update: The Lions have now released Marvin Jones Jr. in the wake of his decision to step away from the NFL.

What does the Detroit Lions depth chart look like in Marvin Jones Jr.'s absence?

Jones Jr. was essentially WR3 on Detroit's depth chart with Amon-Ra St. Brown the clear top dog. Josh Reynolds slotted in as WR2, with Antoine Green also available to be called upon.

Jones Jr.'s absence could force the Lions into making a move at the trade deadline.

Fortunately for the Lions, the trade deadline is creeping up and some receivers are likely to be made available between now and Oct. 31, starting with Broncos duo Jerry Jeudy and Courtland Sutton. Cardinals wideout Marquise 'Hollywood' Brown could also be another name under consideration, though he has also been linked to the reigning Super Bowl champions Kansas City Chiefs.

The resurgence of Jameson Williams and the deep threat from Brown's arrival could work wonders for the offense with Jared Goff holding his own under center.

While there are a number of teams likely to be interested in wide receivers closer to the NFL Trade Deadline, the Lions can afford to be buyers on the back of their 5-2 start to the season.

The Lions also need some help on the defensive front, though it remains to be seen whether that is a priority in Marvin Jones Jr.'s sudden absence.

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