The New Orleans Saints are making exciting moves as they prepare for the upcoming NFL season! Just recently, they announced the signing of Velus Jones Jr., a former player for the Chicago Bears and the Carolina Panthers. Jones, known for his dynamic playmaking abilities, is looking to bring some extra flair to the Saints’ roster. This signing could be crucial for a team eager to shake things up for the next year.
Who is Velus Jones Jr.?
Velus Jones Jr. has had quite an interesting journey in the NFL. After being drafted in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft, he worked hard to make a name for himself. Jones is especially recognized for his skills in both receiving and returning kicks, showcasing his speedy style on the field. His college career at the University of Tennessee was marked by impressive achievements, including being named the SEC Special Teams Player of the Year in 2021.
Recent Journey Through the NFL
- After two years with the Bears, Jones found himself waived on October 26, 2024.
- Shortly after, he joined the Jacksonville Jaguars’ practice squad for a brief period.
- By December, he signed with the Carolina Panthers, where he played in three games.
- Throughout 2024, Jones recorded 11 rushing yards and had 19 yards in kickoff returns.
Despite moving between teams, Jones has shown promising stats since entering the league. Totaling 135 receiving yards, 165 rushing yards, and one touchdown in each category over his career, he certainly has the potential to make a significant impact with the Saints.
What This Means for the Saints
The Saints had a challenging season last year, especially when it came to kickoff returns, where they struggled to find a consistent performer. With no player exceeding 11 returns, the addition of Jones could be a game-changer. His impressive average of 26.5 yards on kickoff returns during his college years suggests he knows how to bring the excitement on special teams.
Jones’ High School and College Achievements
Before his journey in the NFL, Jones made waves at Saraland High School in Alabama. He earned All-State honors not just once, but two years in a row during 2014 and 2015. At Tennessee, he showcased his skills dramatically, making records with 807 receiving yards and seven touchdowns in 2021, plus boasting stellar kickoff and punt return averages that caught the eyes of NFL scouts.
Looking Ahead
The Saints are clearly looking to strengthen their roster, and adding a versatile player like Velus Jones Jr. indicates their strategy for the season ahead. Fans are eager to see how Jones’ unique skill set will fit into the team’s plans and potentially help lead them to victory in the upcoming season.
| Year | Team | Games Played | Receiving Yards | Rushing Yards | Touchdowns |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Chicago Bears | 10 | 135 | 165 | 1 |
| 2024 | Carolina Panthers | 3 | 0 | 11 | 0 |
With all these elements coming together, it’s going to be thrilling to watch what Velus Jones Jr. can bring to the New Orleans Saints this season. Fans and players alike are hopeful that he can help turn this team into a force to be reckoned with!
