Former Vols WR Velus Jones Jr already receiving praise in Bears camp for specific skill
The Chicago Bears didn't do a lot this offseason to help second-year quarterback Justin Fields, but they may have found him a solid offensive weapon by drafting Tennessee Vols wide receiver Velus Jones in the third round (No. 71 overall selection) of the 2022 NFL Draft. Jones, who turned 25 earlier this month, has elite […]
The Chicago Bears didn't do a lot this offseason to help second-year quarterback Justin Fields, but they may have found him a solid offensive weapon by drafting Tennessee Vols wide receiver Velus Jones in the third round (No. 71 overall selection) of the 2022 NFL Draft.
Jones, who turned 25 earlier this month, has elite speed (4.31 in the 40-yard dash) that's already impressing Fields.
“At rookie minicamp, there was one play that stood out to me, he had a 10-yard dig route in and caught it and hit that second gear kick for a touchdown,” said Fields this week (via Bleacher Report). “I think he caught it at 10 yards and took it 60, so he’s a great run-after-the-catch guy. He’s going to pick up a lot of yards and is physical."
"He’s almost like a running back at receiver," added Fields. "Having him on the outside and putting the ball in his hands and letting him work will be great.”
Tennessee fans are well aware of Jones' explosive abilities. The former USC wide receiver made his impact felt last season in Josh Heupel's offense, breaking out for 807 receiving yards and seven touchdowns on 62 receptions.
The play that Fields is talking about — a short pass turned into a long game — is something we saw a lot from Jones at UT.
The NFL will obviously be a bit more of a challenge for Jones. But his 4.31 speed will allow him to blow past even NFL defenders. The Bears may have got a huge steal in the draft by selecting Jones in the third round.
Featured image via Brianna Paciorka/News Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK
