NFL Star Jonathan Jones Flew Himself to Sign Eagles Contract

The cornerback is a certified pilot and flew his own plane to Philadelphia to sign his new deal.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 12:18pm

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NFL cornerback Jonathan Jones revealed that he flew himself from Charlotte, North Carolina to Philadelphia in his own plane to sign his new contract with the Philadelphia Eagles. Jones, a two-time Super Bowl champion, is an avid aviation enthusiast who obtained his pilot's license in 2023 and has been flying himself on vacations with his wife.

Why it matters

Jones' unique method of traveling to sign his contract highlights his passion for flying and demonstrates the flexibility and convenience that comes with being a licensed pilot. As more professional athletes explore hobbies and skills outside of their sport, Jones' story provides an interesting example of how they can incorporate those interests into their careers.

The details

Jones, who is entering his 11th NFL season, flew a Daher TBM single-engine turboprop plane from Charlotte to Philadelphia on March 18th to sign his 1-year, $2 million contract with the Eagles, which includes a $500,000 signing bonus. Prior to joining the Eagles, Jones played for the New England Patriots from 2016-2024 and the Washington Commanders last season. He obtained his pilot's license in April 2023 after taking lessons at Norwood Airport outside Boston.

  • Jones flew himself to Philadelphia on March 18, 2026 to sign his contract.
  • Jones obtained his pilot's license in April 2023.

The players

Jonathan Jones

An NFL cornerback who is entering his 11th season in the league. He is a two-time Super Bowl champion and recently signed a 1-year, $2 million contract with the Philadelphia Eagles.

Andressa Jones

Jonathan Jones' wife, who has shared on social media that the couple has flown on vacation together using Jonathan's private plane.

Philadelphia Eagles

The NFL team that Jonathan Jones signed a contract with in 2026.

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What they’re saying

“I found a little passion for aviation a few years back and flew up here today for the signing, so it's a little hobby of mine that I enjoy doing.”

— Jonathan Jones, NFL Cornerback

“I grew up as a country boy, so always outside on bikes, four-wheelers and [aviation] was kind of my niche. I got exposed to general aviation, took a discovery flight and I fell in love with it.”

— Jonathan Jones, NFL Cornerback

What’s next

The Eagles will hold a press conference on March 22nd to formally introduce Jonathan Jones as the newest member of the team.

The takeaway

Jonathan Jones' passion for flying demonstrates how professional athletes can pursue unique hobbies and interests outside of their sport. His ability to pilot his own plane to sign his new contract with the Eagles highlights the flexibility and convenience that can come with being a licensed pilot, which could inspire more athletes to explore aviation as a hobby.