Saints News Network

Saints Sign Former Bears Running Back, Might Use Him As Running Back

He's also a valuable returner on special teams

Colin Keane

Oct 5, 2014; Charlotte, NC, USA; A Chicago Bears helmet lays on the bench during the second quarter against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-Imagn Images
Oct 5, 2014; Charlotte, NC, USA; A Chicago Bears helmet lays on the bench during the second quarter against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-Imagn Images / Jeremy Brevard-Imagn Images
In this story:

The New Orleans Saints added a multi-positional player to their roster on Saturday; but what will his role be on Kellen Moore’s team?

Per a new report on Saturday night from ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, it appeared the Saints had added a receiver to their depth chart.

“Wide receiver Velus Jones Jr. is signing with the #Saints, per source,” Fowler posted to X. “Former third-round pick by Chicago (Bears) was last with Carolina (Panthers).”

Jones Jr., the No. 71 overall pick in the 2022 NFL draft out of Tennessee, has tallied 135 receiving yards on 12 receptions in his career to go along with 1,096 return yards.

But will Jones Jr. be utilized as a receiver for New Orleans or as a running back? He also has 165 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown on his NFL resume.

LouisianaSports.Net’s Ross Jackson speculated about what Jones Jr.’s role might be on Saturday.

“WR Velus Jones Jr. has more career rushing attempts (20) than career receptions (12),” Jackson wrote. “Will be interesting to see if the #Saints look to utilize him as a receiver vs. a running back or vice versa.”

Whether he serves primarily as a wideout or running back, Jones Jr.’s value on special teams is undeniable, and that’s a fact that dates back to his college days. Jones Jr. was named SEC Co-Special Teams Player of the Year in 2021.

In Jones Jr., the Saints have added a versatile football player who at 27 years old might have his best few years ahead of him.

And with Moore, an offensive mastermind, at the helm of the Saints, it won’t be surprising to see New Orleans figure out how to use Jones Jr. in creative and unexpected ways.

More NFL: Saints Labeled 'Logical Landing Spot' For Ex-Cowboys 5-Time Pro Bowler

Published
Colin Keane
COLIN KEANE

Colin Keane is a contributing journalist for the On SI network. Born in Illinois, Colin grew up in Massachusetts as the third of four brothers. For his high school education, Colin attended St. Mark's School (Southborough, MA), where he played basketball and soccer and served as student body president. He went on to receive a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from Villanova University. Colin currently resides in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. For all business/marketing inquiries, please reach out to Scott Neville: scott@wtfsports.org

Home/Saints News