"After a lot of conversations and time thinking about it, I've decided to return to Florida State for my senior season," said Jones. "A lot of guys the past couple of years have helped to turn the program around, and I want to continue to be a part of that process. I've always talked with some of the guys I came in with and we've always talked about finishing together and that's also something I wanted to do. This is the best decision for me and my family. I'm looking forward to coming back, working hard, improving my game but also helping Florida State continue with the success we've had."
Jones started every game this season as FSU's weakside linebacker and led the team with 95 tackles. He ranked 20th in the ACC with 6.9 tackles per game and he was seventh overall in the conference for total tackles. Jones' two fumble recoveries tied for third-most in the ACC and tied for the team lead. He also led FSU in fumble return yardage in 2012. The Winter park, Fla. native accounted for the Seminoles only defensive score of the season in a road win at USF. In 2012 the WLB set a new career high for TFL, pass break-ups and fumble recoveries.
Jones returning for his senior season is great news for the Seminole coaching staff especially in terms of the way the junior ended the 2012 season. He recorded eight or more tackles in seven of the last nine games including three games with double digit tackles, which included 10 in the 2013 Discover Orange Bowl. In the first five games of 2012 Jones had 17 tackles; he had 14 in the next game versus NC State and 78 in the last nine games of the season. Jones led FSU in tackles four times and was second on the team three other times in the last nine games.
"I'm excited for Christian to return to Florida State and further his education, playing career and helping put Florida State back at an elite level," said FSU Head Coach Jimbo Fisher. "I think his decision shows great commitment to FSU and great commitment to his future. We're fortunate to have the leadership he brings on and off the field."