When the Chicago Bears drafted Velus Jones in 2022, they knew two things. They immediately had one of the more gifted kick return specialists in the league, and it appeared they also had a wide receiver who was just starting to blossom. The first part was true. Jones was terrific returning the ball as a rookie. Unfortunately, it became clear almost immediately that his receiving prowess wasn’t where the team hoped it’d be. His route-running was average, and worse still, he didn’t have reliable hands. Too many catchable balls thrown his way were hitting the turf.
Many felt like he was a lost cause. However, others saw a different path for him. One that would see a switch to a different position. Finally, after two years of hemming and hawing, the Bears appear to have embraced it.
The Chicago Bears create options with Jones at running back.
It’s not like the team is shooting blind. Jones has 17 carries for 154 yards and a touchdown in the NFL. His size, strength, and speed make for a good combination at that position. Teams finally started doing the same thing with Cordarrelle Patterson after six seasons of failing to make it work at receiver. It resurrected his career. He had 297 carries between 2021 and 2022, averaging 4.4 yards per attempt and scoring 14 touchdowns. His coaches were smart enough to realize that getting the ball in his hands was the most important thing, not how they did it. The Chicago Bears might be reaching the same conclusion with Jones. If throwing it to him isn’t the answer, just hand it off instead. He should give the backfield more explosiveness alongside D’Andre Swift.
Versatility in players is a good thing. The Bears will use Velus a few times a game as a Swiss army knife. I think Velus running with the RBs is to get him more used to reading and hitting holes. That way he is more prepared to succeed with the new kickoff.
I like this!
Then I’d assume they’d trade him, unless they’re keeping him as a returner and seeing what other roles he can fill in an emergency. I have no idea and plead ignorance.
Watch a video replay of the Men’s 100-meter finals from Sunday, Aug. 4th.
It was reported that some of those men hit speeds in excess of 27 mph.
If speed is really all you need in the NFL — someone should wire our man in Paris, Dr. Stephano, a few million dollars — and let’s sign the “five best guys.”
Wow — that was easy.
@jmscooby Jones would get signed off of the practice squad in an instant — he’s one of the most explosive kick returners in the league, and that alone would justify a roster spot on many other teams that don’t have as much RB depth.
I’m not saying that they should definitely roster him. I’m saying that, if they don’t, he won’t stick on the practice squad. Poles just needs to pick a lane with Jones and commit to it.