Citing Negative Message

The question is - what’s in a name? Cornerback “Pacman” Jones, who has recently spent more time being known for actions off the football field rather than on it, has dropped the video game nickname and requested that he be called by his legal name “Adam.”

As he noted, “There’s really just a lot of negativity behind it.” He added, “It’s just time for a change, man. I’m doing everything to make sure that I’m all right as a person, mentally and emotionally.”

The NFL has decided to let Jones practice with his new team the Dallas Cowboys. Jones, who was suspended for the entire 2007 NFL season for numerous run-ins with the law, has been working towards full reinstatement in the league. While he was suspended, Jones was with the Tennessee Titans.

Jones has been working out with the Cowboys for three weeks since Commissioner Roger Goodell partially lifted his suspension. He will not be reinstated fully until somewhere around the start of this season. The Dallas Cowboys got Jones from the Titans in April for some draft picks.

In a press conference on June 4, Jones did not say anything about relinquishing his nickname. In 30 games over two seasons, Jones, a corner, has made 116 tackles (95 solo) and grabbed four interceptions. He’s also served as a Titans’ punt and kick returner, racking up 712 yards and four touchdowns on punts and 1,648 yards on kick run-backs.

The news of Jones dropping the nickname came out after he spoke to approximately 60 kids who were attending a basketball camp. At the camp, which is sponsored by forward Brandon Bass of the Dallas Mavericks, Jones said that he wanted to be known by his given name Adam. When signing autographs for the camp participants that day Jones signed “Adam” and not “Pacman.”

It’s been reported that as of this week Jones has started taking reps in the Cowboys camp.