The New Orleans Saints have officially added a new member to their team, signing former Chicago Bears and Carolina Panthers wide receiver Velus Jones Jr. This exciting move comes as the Saints aim to strengthen their roster for the upcoming seasons.
From Chicago to New Orleans
Velus Jones Jr., who was previously drafted by the Bears, had a whirlwind journey last season. He was waived by the Bears on October 26, 2024, after a series of games that didn’t quite work out for him as planned. Just a few days later, he joined the practice squad of the Jacksonville Jaguars, signaling that he was determined to keep playing and finding a perfect fit.
Making a Mark with the Panthers
Jones soon got another opportunity when the Carolina Panthers signed him to their active roster on December 10, 2024. His contributions came in several games, where he made a modest impact, recording 11 rushing yards and 19 yards in kickoff returns during his time there. Throughout his career in the NFL so far, he has notched 12 receptions totaling 135 yards, which showcases his potential to add value to any team he joins.
A Strong Background in Football
Before embarking on his NFL journey, Velus was a standout athlete in high school, earning All-State honors in both 2014 and 2015. He later spent time at the University of Southern California and the University of Tennessee, where he shone as an exceptional player. Notably, in 2021, he shared the SEC Special Teams Player of the Year award, reflecting his talent and hard work on the field.
Special Teams Skills
The Saints are particularly excited about Jones’ kickoff return skills. In the 2021 season at Tennessee, he averaged an impressive 27.3 yards per return with one touchdown. His ability to maneuver the field and evade defenders makes him a valuable asset for the Saints, who had trouble finding reliable players for kickoff returns last season.
What This Means for The Saints
The Saints hope that bringing in Jones will invigorate their special teams game, especially considering that last season none of their players returned more than 11 kickoffs. With Jones on the roster, fans are hopeful for bigger plays and stronger performances in the upcoming season.
Join the Excitement!
As the Saints prepare for another season of NFL action, this signing will boost their roster and add depth to the wide receiver position. Fans of the team are excited to see how Jones will fit in with the squad and contribute to their goal of climbing the ranks in the league. The buzz around the signing is palpable, and many are eager to watch Jones showcase his skills on the field in the Black and Gold.
