Roster Move: Bears sign speedy receiver Velus Jones Jr. to 4-year deal |
The Chicago Bears announced Tuesday that they have signed rookie receiver Velus Jones Jr. to a four-year deal.
No terms of the contract have been disclosed. Jones was a third-round selection by the Bears as they certainly need more speed in their WR room and the return game. In 2021, he had 62 catches for 807 yards and seven touchdowns. He appeared in 61 games over six seasons between USC and Tennessee, registering 120 catches for 1,434 yards and 11 touchdowns. Regarding the return game, he averaged an impressive 24.4 yards with two touchdowns on 122 kickoff returns and 15.1 yards per punt return. ESPN draft analyst Todd McShay is very high on Jones' ability to make an impact with the Bears. "I love Jones' upside," McShay said recently. "He's a tad under 6-foot and is still refining his route running, but look at his speed and contact balance. He is a threat any time the ball is in his hands, with instincts and elusiveness in the open field and the breakaway speed to take the top off the defense. Jones' 4.31 in the 40 ranked fourth among all participants at the combine and second among receivers, and he's built like a running back. Chicago can get the ball in his hands on quick slants and let him pick up extra yards. They can target him on deep shots. They can get him involved on sweeps. And they can use him in the return game." The Bears only have two draft picks unsigned with second-round pick Kyler Gordon and safety Jaquan Brisker. Saraland??LA ??Knoxville ??Chicago. God has ordered my steps which have led me to the Chicago Bears Organization. My story has been written and my faith in God has helped me stay the course. A special thank you to the Chicago Bears Organization. Thank you God it’s official!?? pic.twitter.com/R50G6bvfHu
