While Jones re-signed with the club for another season at the start of this month, he said on Monday that it was time for younger teammates to assume the role.

The tough midfielder has been Demons skipper for 129 games, second only to David Neitz's club record of 175.

He became co-captain with Jack Grimes in 2014 and then had the role by himself for the following two seasons.

Jones and Jack Viney have been co-captains since then.

He played 22 games this season for a career total of 286.

It is the latest change at Melbourne after a disastrous season, where they plummeted from last year's preliminary final to second-last.

"I've had a lot of time to reflect since the season ended, and always my No.1 priority has been my teammates and the club. This decision was no different," Jones told the club website.

"After a couple of weeks away ... I came to the conclusion the right time is now for me to step aside in this capacity.

"Opening up that avenue for other guys to take responsibility and drive this club forward is important for the club's future, so my decision was definitely influenced by the opportunity to help develop that.

"This year took its toll on me emotionally and physically. There is an element of relieving the pressure that will help, but I still have high expectations of myself."

Australian Associated Press