In 1984, De Jong made his debut for Heerenveen's first team under the guidance of head coach Henk van Brussel.
[2] De Jong also played a pivotal role in Heerenveen's promotion to the Eredivisie and their participation in a KNVB Cup final.
[4] Renowned for his unwavering dedication on the field, he earned the moniker De kuitenbijter ("the calf-biter").
Subsequently, for the 2017–18 season, he took on the coaching position at the amateur football club VV Lemmer.
[4] After his football career, De Jong owned a sports store in Gorredijk, and during the 2000s, he engaged in activities with the supporters' association of SC Heerenveen, Junior Heroes.