Former Baltimore Ravens offensive tackle Jaryd Jones-Smith has not held back in sharing his thoughts about his departure from the Ravens and joining the Atlanta Falcons. In a series of candid remarks, Jones-Smith gave a scathing review of his time in Baltimore, calling his move to Atlanta a “step up” and claiming that the change has revitalized his career.
The 27-year-old lineman, now finding success in the Falcons’ offensive line, spoke boldly about his decision to part ways with the Ravens, making it clear that he harbors no regrets. “When I look back, leaving Baltimore was the best decision I ever made for my career,” Jones-Smith said in an exclusive interview. “It wasn’t just about football; it was about finding a place that respected my talent and allowed me to grow as a player. I didn’t feel that in Baltimore.”
Jones-Smith joined the Ravens as an undrafted free agent, battling for a spot on the roster and enduring multiple stints on the practice squad before earning some game time. Despite his best efforts, the big breaks never seemed to come. “I felt like I was always proving myself, but never being fully appreciated,” Jones-Smith admitted. “It was frustrating, man. You put in all the work, the sweat, the hours, and it just never feels like enough. They had their guys, and I wasn’t one of them.”
When asked about specific issues he faced in Baltimore, Jones-Smith didn’t mince words. “Honestly, it was the environment. The culture just wasn’t a good fit for me. There was too much emphasis on sticking to the same old way of doing things. Innovation was lacking, and it didn’t help that I never really got a chance to show what I could bring to the table.”
Jones-Smith also hinted at internal politics within the Ravens’ organization, which, according to him, often left younger or less established players struggling to find their footing. “Look, it’s a great team with some amazing players, but I feel like there’s a hierarchy that’s hard to break into. Unless you’re a first-round pick or a guy who’s already proven, it’s easy to get lost in the shuffle,” he said. “I wasn’t willing to settle for being just another name on the roster.”
Since joining the Falcons, Jones-Smith’s fortunes seem to have changed. He has found a regular role in Atlanta’s offensive line rotation, and the franchise appears to have embraced his potential. “The difference in Atlanta was night and day. From the moment I walked in, I felt valued,” Jones-Smith stated. “It wasn’t just about what I did on the field, but how they welcomed me as part of the team culture. That made all the difference.”
He went on to praise Falcons head coach Arthur Smith for his leadership and vision. “Coach Smith is a real players’ coach. He knows how to connect with us, how to push us to be better. You want to go out there and play for a coach like that. He saw something in me that others didn’t, and for that, I’m grateful.”
Jones-Smith’s teammates have also noticed his growing confidence. Fellow offensive lineman Jake Matthews weighed in on the impact Jones-Smith has made in Atlanta. “Jaryd came in and immediately started contributing. His work ethic is off the charts, and you can see how hungry he is to prove himself. He’s got a chip on his shoulder, and that’s exactly what we need in this locker room,” Matthews said.
While Jones-Smith is clearly enjoying his time in Atlanta, his comments about the Ravens suggest there’s still some unresolved frustration. He made it clear that his move wasn’t just about finding playing time but also escaping a stifling environment.
“I’m not saying I didn’t learn anything in Baltimore – of course I did. But the reality is, I felt like I hit a ceiling there,” Jones-Smith continued. “There wasn’t room for growth, and I wasn’t going to wait around forever to see if something would change. Leaving Baltimore was a step up because I found a place where I can thrive, where they believe in my abilities.”
His remarks didn’t stop there. Jones-Smith was blunt about what he perceives as Baltimore’s limitations. “It’s a great organization for some guys, but not everyone fits into that system. For me, Atlanta was a better fit, and the results speak for themselves.”
As Jones-Smith continues to carve out his role with the Falcons, he remains optimistic about what lies ahead. “This is just the beginning. I’ve still got a lot to prove, but I’m in the right place to do it. Atlanta has given me the opportunity to show what I can do, and I’m not going to waste it.”
When asked if he had any message for his former team, Jones-Smith smiled and said, “No hard feelings, but I’m happy where I am. I’m not looking back.”
Jaryd Jones-Smith’s bold statements have certainly raised eyebrows, and while the Ravens have yet to comment, it’s clear that the offensive tackle feels he made the right move. As for the Falcons, they’ve gained a player who is more determined than ever to make his mark on the league. Only time will tell how high Jones-Smith can rise, but one thing is for certain: he’s not regretting his decision to leave Baltimore behind.
