On a busy Saturday night, the New Orleans Saints surprised NFL fans by signing Velus Jones Jr., a talented receiver and special teams player. The signing comes after Jones had a whirlwind journey through the NFL, briefly landing with teams like the Chicago Bears and Carolina Panthers. Now, he is ready to bring his skills to New Orleans, where he hopes to make a big impact.
Jones’s Quick NFL Journey
Velus Jones Jr. is no stranger to ups and downs in his football career. He was drafted in the third round by the Chicago Bears in 2022 but was waived just two years into his stint there. After several twists and turns, including a short stay on the Jacksonville Jaguars’ practice squad, he moved on to the Carolina Panthers. While with the Panthers, he had some opportunities, but the Saints are looking to give him a fresh start.
Impact at Multiple Positions
In his NFL career, Jones has shown that he can do more than just catch passes. He also has showcased his skills in special teams, where he has handled kickoffs and punts. In total, he has 12 receptions for 135 yards and one touchdown, alongside 20 rushing attempts that led to another score. His ability to excel in multiple roles makes him an exciting addition for the Saints.
College Success and Recognition
Before stepping onto the professional stage, Jones had a stellar college career. He played at two major schools: Southern California and Tennessee, where he was recognized as an All-State player and earned the SEC Special Teams Player of the Year award in 2021. During that standout season at Tennessee, he recorded 62 receptions for 807 yards and seven touchdowns, proving he has what it takes to perform under pressure.
Why the Saints Wanted Jones
The Saints had experienced a bit of a shake-up recently, particularly in their kick returner positions. None of the eight returners they used last season had more than 11 returns. Jones, with his impressive average of 26.5 yards per kickoff return, is expected to help fill that gap. By bringing him on board, the Saints hope to bolster their special teams unit and enhance their overall performance on the field.
What Lies Ahead for Jones in New Orleans
As Jones prepares to join his new teammates, he is likely focusing on making a fresh start. The Saints’ coaching staff will be eager to see how he can adapt to their system and contribute to the team’s success. Fans are excited about this new addition and hope that Jones’s talents will shine in the upcoming season.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Receptions | 12 |
| Receiving Yards | 135 |
| Touchdowns | 1 |
| Rushing Attempts | 20 |
| Rushing Yards | 165 |
| Kickoff Returns Average | 26.5 yards |
| Punt Returns Average | 7.0 yards |