But its also why he has value as a returner. ET on Thursday. Jones (6 feet, 204) had 62 catches for 807 yards and seven touchdowns last season. Bears Senior Writer. Finally, some help for Justin Fields. The Packers could be looking to acquire a new kick returner in the 2022 NFL draft. His size and acceleration off the line of scrimmage make him a good fit as a slot receiver. Ahead of the 2022 NFL draft, ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. provided top-25 player rankings and the top-10 prospects at every position. PFN Senior Draft Director Cam Mellor noted this while at the Senior Bowl earlier in the month. His 4.31-second 40-yard dash made him the second-fastest wide receiver at this years NFL combine. Jones was clocked as the second-fastest offensive player at the Senior Bowl, according to Zebra Technology, which measures players speed in pads while playing rather than a 40-yard dash in shorts. Jones appeared in 61 games with 21 starts over six seasons at USC (2016-19) and Tennessee (2020-21). 9 Texas vs. No. Too bad they did so by investing in an older prospect, one whose primary function coming into the league will likely be as a returner. Take a shot on the speed of Jones in fantasy drafts and hope a team is patient enough to work through the growing pains at receiver. The Patriots make too much sense as a landing spot for Jones. Can beat the press with elusiveness or physical contact. Chicago isnt concerned about Jones being a 25-year-old rookie and is fond of his run-after-the-catch ability. Jones generated 2.67 yards per route and a 131.0 passer rating on passes thrown his way. Jones fakes to the inside and gets open shortly after the sticks. General manager Ryan Poles opted to take a chance on Jones, who has blazing speed and has the potential to be dangerous in Luke Getsys offense. Velus Jones Jr. is more of a return specialist than a wide receiver right now, but speed like his will always be a premium in the NFL. Velus Jones Jr. is one of the oldest prospects in the draft, and he didnt break out until his sixth season in college. His shocking 40 time (4.31) shot him up draft boards, but Jones remains unrefined and might need some touches schemed up, a la another former Tennessee star in Cordarrelle Patterson. All rights reserved. The best hope for Jones is to establish himself as a blue chip special teams player with the speed and physicality to be a solid role player in the passing game. April 4, 2022 7:52 am ET. Velus Jones is an overaged prospect who offers help to a team as both a WR and kick returner. So there's a question of whether he can improve much more or if he's close to his ceiling. Jones, a 6-foot, 200-pounder, spent three years at Southern Cal and two years at Tennessee. Larry Mayer. The Jones pick garnered criticism from the draft community because of his age and draft projection. All Combine and Draft-Related Analysis, News, Video, and Biographical Information for Velus Jones A lot more. With Jones turning 25 years old at start of the 2022 NFL season, there are some concerns within the draft community on how much he could actually improve after getting to the next level. The following browsers are supported: Chrome, Edge (v80 and later), Firefox and Safari. Please check your email for a confirmation. Hes an unpolished route runner, but hes one of the best run-after-the-catch wideouts in this draft class. With the Chargers having needs at various positions, we will do our best to evaluate the players that we feel fit the team . Does a nice job locating and tracking deep passes and is a legitimate vertical threat. After six seasons in college football, Jones was projected to be only a fourth or fifth round pick in this years NFL draft. Mostly a screen-and-go ball player at this stage. He ended the season with 1,722 all-purpose yards, which was third in the SEC conference. Six-year player, thanks in part to the added year of COVID-19 eligibility. Even on his TD against Alabama, despite the ball being on the 11-yard line, the corner was giving him an 8-yard cushion. Jones patiently waited for his opportunity to showcase his talents, resulting in a scouting report full of potential. Plays like this are why Jones averaged 12.8 yards per reception at Tennessee, with 8.1 coming after the catch on average. Josh Heupel made 10 promises when he became Tennessee football coach. Mel Kiper/Todd McShay (ESPN): No. But his route-running, though improved in the past year, is still seen as a weakness. follow. Jones, a 6-foot, 200-pounder, spent three years . 30 Days and 30 Players the Colts are/could be interested in. He finished last season as the FBS active leader with 2,973 kick return yards in his career and participated in the Senior Bowl. Sometimes, that is because there are some speedsters who can only run fast when going in a straight line. Given the need, watch out for New Orleans to look at Jones later in the draft. Willing to go up and attack the ball. Former Tennessee Volunteer Wide Receiver Velus Jones Jr. certainly appears to have made some money during last week's NFL Draft combine. For one, Jones does not possess a developed route tree. https://bearswire.usatoday.com/lists/bears-velus-jones-jr-nfl-draft-2022-expert-grades/, Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy. He was a 2019 All-Pac-12 performer as a return specialist and a 2021 All-SEC selection as an all-purpose player and return specialist. In the passing game, teams will be drawn to his acceleration and ability to get down the field fast. Old prospect whos already 25. Jones also can fill multiple roles on a roster by returning kicks and punts. Thats one of the primary questions NFL teams ask themselves when scouting a player. Jones was under-the-radar until last season, which makes him more intriguing as an NFL prospect, thought it probably means a late pick on day two or even day three. But whats interesting is that Jones didnt hit his stride until Burns started coaching him; in his first 46 games, most of them at USC, he totaled just 58 receptions for 627 yards and 4 touchdowns. The most likely projection for Jones is a starting returner and speed threat off the bench. DCS chief: Tenn. has stopped housing kids in offices in all but one county, How Velus Jones' 40 time at NFL Combine may help Tennessee football WR's draft stock, Your California Privacy Rights / Privacy Policy. (50%*), Drafted: ROUND: 3 - Pick Number: 71 (CHI), (NFL Combine historically - higher value represents better perfomance), SAN DIEGO COUNTY CREDIT UNION HOLIDAY BOWL. An impressive athlete with very quick acceleration to reach his top speed quickly and stretch the field. Please check your email for a confirmation. Jones is one of 324 prospects invited to the combine, which makes him potentially draftable. Jones has the lateral speed that doesnt make him lose a step when running routes. Great speed. Pro Football Network, LLC. Bill Belichick loves guys who can contribute in a multitude of ways, which should place Jones on his radar. . The NFL . Whether its running by defenders to get deep, or its getting YAC from the shorter routes, Jones will find a way to use his speed in the open field. Please play responsibly. With the right NFL team, Jones could turn out to be a diamond in the rough. The Lions still need quite a bit of help at receiver. Given Mac Jones quick decision-making abilities and accuracy, when Velus Jones is able to gain separation on a quick slant, he knows there is a chance for substantial YAC due to his rapid pace. In all likelihood, in most standard leagues, Jones wont be on the fantasy radar this season. Needs to tighten up route running. Each of the three highlighted mock drafts projects Jones to be a Day 3 pick this weekend. Last year, as a receiver, he caught 62 passes for 807 yards and seven touchdowns. Plays too loose and allows cornerbacks to get the jump on him. Tennessee wide receiver/return specialist Velus Jones Jr. is working out at the NFL Scouting Combine this week in hopes of convincing a team to draft him.. Jones, a 6-foot, 200-pounder, was a 2021 . Returns, rushing and receiving has allowed Jones to rack up over 4,700 all-purpose yards. OVERALL. Puoi cambiare le tue preferenze in qualunque momento nella sezione Le tue impostazioni per la privacy. 21+ (19+ CA-ONT) (18+ NH/WY). Jones stock rose during his final season at Tennessee. Head coach Matt Eberflus addresses the media on Tuesday during the 2023 NFL Combine in Indianapolis. He would be a good pick on the third day of the draft, especially if the Saints add a more-established weapon sooner. How many ways can a player bring value to our team? Often has to throttle down to find the ball. Still, he possesses elite speed and showed real playmaking ability for the Vols in 2021. There is a path where he turns into the next Van Jefferson, as long as we see a marked improvement in his route running to get him to a similar level. The browser you are using is no longer supported on this site. 2023 NFL Enterprises LLC. While unpolished, Jones was also unguardable at the Senior Bowl. Dati relativi al dispositivo e alla connessione a Internet, come l'indirizzo IP, Attivit di navigazione e di ricerca durante l'utilizzo dei siti web e delle app di Yahoo. But add his return skills to the equation, and his value rises. tight end Cole Kmet and wide receiver Velus Jones Jr. speak with the media in the locker room following the Bears' Week 18 loss to . Reach Adam Sparks at adam.sparks@knoxnews.com and on Twitter @AdamSparks. Physically present in AZ/CO/CT/IL/IN/IA/KS/LA (select parishes)/MD/MI/NH/NJ/NY/OH/OR/PA/TN/VA/WV/WY only. Finally, the Chicago Bears got some wide receiver help for quarterback Justin Fields. Furthermore, Jones' hands are a concern. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) (CO/IL/IN/LA/MD/MI/NJ/PA/TN/WV/WY), 1-800-NEXT STEP (AZ), 1-800-522-4700 (KS/NH), 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), 1-800-BETS OFF (IA), visit OPGR.org (OR), or 1-888-532-3500(VA). Last season, Jones caught 62 passes for over 800 yards, seven touchdowns and had three games where he had over 100+ receiving yards. Not only is Jones a capable receiver, but he might be the best returner of the 2022 NFL Draft class. Jones has very good lateral quickness that he was able to show throughout his college career. He was an effective No. (97%*), 4.51 (P) Experience and production as a punt and kick returner. WR Velus Jones Jr.: NFL Draft scouting report and fantasy football profile, Fantasy Basketball Picks: Top DraftKings NBA DFS Plays for March 1. He ran the 40-yard dash in 4.31 seconds, the second-fastest among wide receivers and fourth-fastest among all participants at the NFL Scouting Combine. This gave Jones more room at the line of scrimmage to start getting the ball earlier in his routes. Mock Draft Database Sites; NFL NBA NHL MLB. The only thing that fantasy managers care about is what Jones does on the offensive side of the ball. As noted, Jones hands are great. Doesnt quite play to that level. Does not flash much ability to catch outside of his frame or in traffic. He brings an element of speed you cant teach and instantly makes your roster better. Wide receiver was Chicagos biggest weakness ahead of the NFL draft, where Darnell Mooney and Byron Pringle were the teams top wideouts. He was heavily involved in quick passes behind the line of scrimmage. 167) - 1 - Green Bay Packers (No. Covers a lot of ground in the short half of the field and is slippery after the catch. In his six years yes, six years Jones recorded almost 3,000 kick return yards while attending both USC (2016-2019) and Tennessee (2020-2021). Sign up for the Touchdown Wire newsletter to get our top stories in your inbox every morning, Georgia coach Kirby Smart reacted to charges against star DL Jalen Carter. 2023 www.knoxnews.com. Draft Stock & Draft Projection. Sign up for the Bears Wire newsletter to get our top stories in your inbox every morning. This leaves Amon-Ra St. Brown and Quintez Cephus as the primary options for Jared Goff (not including TE T.J. Hockenson). Uncomfortable seeing the ball in at times. But it mightve been a reach on Chicagos part to select him with the seventh pick in the third round. He offers little to sell his route to the DB. Marquez Callaway has shown signs of being a No. 22 TCU on Wednesday, March 1, Picks, predictions for Oklahoma vs. No. What about the status of Alvin Kamara? Crazy timed speed. Tennessee footballs Velus Jones Jr. was selected by theChicago Bears in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft with the 71st overall pick. Jones also figures to contribute on special teams in the return game, where his speed and explosiveness can help with field position. Velus Jones Jr. saved the best of his college football career for last, and his excellent 2021 season now has the Tennessee wide receiver and return specialist in position to hear his name called . As fantasy managers watch the NFL Draft, what does Velus Jones Jr.'s scouting report say, and which teams could be potential landing spots? That said, hes an explosive pass-catcher with elite speed who should help Darnell Mooney challenge opposing defenses. He was clocked as the second-fastest offensive player at the Senior Bowl, according to Zebra Technology, which measures players speed in pads in live action. Lets go to the film to see what he can add to an NFL roster. (4%*), 121 (C) DeAndre Hopkins Dynasty Profile: Fantasy Outlook, Value, Projections, and Rankings, Keenan Allen Dynasty Profile: Fantasy Outlook, Value, Projections, and Rankings, Dalvin Cook Dynasty Profile: Fantasy Outlook, Value, Projections, and Rankings, James Conner Dynasty Profile: Fantasy Outlook, Value, Projections, and Rankings, Alvin Kamara Dynasty Profile: Fantasy Outlook, Value, Projections, and Rankings. Per maggiori informazioni sulle modalit di utilizzo dei dati, consulta la nostra Informativa sulla privacy e lInformativa sui cookie. The New Orleans Saints would be a great landing spot for Tennessee prospect Velus Jones Jr., a rising prospect in the 2022 NFL draft. Jones has very high production after initial contact. But once Josh Heupel was hired as the Head Coach, in 2021, and then brought in Kelsey Pope to be the wide receivers coach, Jones took off. Despite the lesser QB play from Kedon Slovis to Hendon Hooker and Joe Milton, Tennessee manufactured touches for Jones. 11 Kansas State on Wednesday, March 1, Jalen Carter charged with misdemeanors in traffic death near Georgia campus, Fantasy Basketball Picks: Top DraftKings NBA DFS Targets, Values for March 1. 1 wideout like Michael Thomas. 2023 Mock Drafts 2024 Mock Drafts 2025 Mock Drafts. Will Michael Thomas be back, and how close will he look to the receiver we last saw back in 2020? One thing that cannot be ignored is his breakout season once he got into the right system. NFL DRAFT STOCK REPORT: Why Tennessee offensive lineman Cade Mays' draft stock is unpredictable at NFL Scouting Combine. Jones sprinted to a 4.31 40-yard dash at the NFL combine, and he backs that speed up on film. Velus Jones Jr. enters the NFL after six seasons in college football, spending 2016-2019 at USC and 2020-2021 at Tennessee. Velus Jones Jr.s fantasy football scouting report, Jones has traits that make him a valuable receiver, Tennessee got Jones the ball in space, not due to his route running, Jones path to fantasy relevancy is shaky. Tracking where Velus Jones Jr. could be drafted in the 2022 NFL mock draft. He waits until the very last second to make his way to the outside. Velus (pronounced VAY-lus) Jones Jr.'s path to the 2022 NFL Draft went through Alabama, Southern California, and Tennessee. 209, Cincinnati Bengals. In the passing game, teams will be drawn to his acceleration and ability to get down the field fast. Zebra Technologies tracking found that he was consistently one of the fastest players in practices during the week, and hes put enough work into refining his routes to compete at the pro level. 1. Very good body control and smooth movements. The 6-foot, 200-pounder caught 120 passes for 1,434 yards and 11 touchdowns. It takes little time for him to accelerate and stack a corner. Fits a zone system, can sift through oncoming traffic and explode through tiny creases and cutback lanes. We offer recommendations from over 100 fantasy football experts! may help give them an inside track on some prospects in the 2022 NFL draft, but one player to note in particular is Tennessee Volunteers wideout Velus Jones Jr. Smooth runner who can switch lanes with ease in space. Current. Jones will participate in drills at the combine during the NFL Network coverage of quarterbacks, tight ends and wide receivers from 4-11 p.m. All other NFL-related trademarks are trademarks of the National Football League. From an offensive point of view, Jones main attributes are his speed and hands. DATABASE. It took until his sixth collegiate season to earn a consistent starting role, but the lull was worth it. Route tree is limited right now. 2, but New Orleans needs someone on the interior. NFL and the NFL shield design are registered trademarks of the National Football League.The team names, logos and uniform designs are registered trademarks of the teams indicated. Past. Sure, his speed is great. Jones projects as a WR3 behind Mooney and Pringle, where the belief is Jones has an intriguing skillset but is still raw. Began his career at USC before transferring to Tennessee in 2020. Where he really stood out was on special teams as a kick returner. Clicca su Gestisci impostazioni per maggiori informazioni e per gestire le tue scelte. His limitations in the passing game mean that he probably wont see the field much, but he could pull off a few big plays to help his team. Eligibility restrictions apply. Check out his YAC from the 2021 season: Best Draft WRs after the catch pic.twitter.com/A46NWLmVR3, No Flags Film (@NoFlagsFilm) March 30, 2022. As a receiver-returner with explosive speed, quickness and burst, Jones should make his mark as a WR3/WR4 and return specialist early in his career. Call 1-800-GAMBLER (PA/OH) or 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Runs crisp routes with sharp cuts. Chargers Scouting Report: Tennessee WR Velus Jones Jr. Cole Topham. Oh, and how do they handle being a projected $76.16 million over the salary cap? Please check your email for a confirmation. We break down Tennessee Velus Jones Jr. with a scouting report and fantasy football outlook heading into the 2022 NFL Draft. But hes a compact, physical receiver who was used as a jack of all trades for the Vols. Special with the ball in his hands. Mocks. For fantasy, unless you play in leagues that reward return yards, it doesnt matter. For a team with limited resources, why spend a Day 2 pick on a soon-to-be 25-year-old rookie slot receiver with one year of production? Why Tennessee offensive lineman Cade Mays' draft stock is unpredictable at NFL Scouting Combine. Tennessee wide receiver/return specialistVelus Jones Jr. is working out at the NFL Scouting Combine this week in hopes of convincing a team to draft him. Jones is extremely patient when running his routes and this clip is a great example. Reach Adam Sparks at adam.sparks@knoxnews.com and on Twitter @AdamSparks. He only pulled in 22 passes for 280 yards and three touchdowns his first year. Listed at 6-foot-even and exactly 200 pounds, Jones broke out in 2021 during Burns first year at Tennessee after transferring from USC a season earlier. Of the Bears' 11 picks in the NFL Draft, ESPN analyst Todd McShay feels that third-round choice Velus Jones Jr., a receiver and return specialist from Tennessee, was their best selection. Knowing what he brings as a returner should endear him to head coach Dan Campbell. Pro Football Network strives to passionately deliver purposeful, captivating, and exceptional football content. 71 overall . Drink it in. Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy. (24%*), 4.31 (C) McShay's NFL draft All-Satellite team: The 2022 class' best playmakers in space . 23 KR, 628 YDS (27.3 AVG), 1 TD, 18 PR, 272 YDS (15.1 AVG). Throughout the game, once Jones beat several defenders deep, the defensive-backs tend to take a couple steps back pre-snap. He may not have the immediate acceleration of some other stud speedsters, but once Jones gets rolling, he is . (29%*), 74 2/8 As the saying goes, if hes even, hes leavin. This speed is how he creates separation both off the line and in the middle of the route. Big 12 Tourney offering enhanced experience to fans with school-specific treats, The conference tourney has put together a weeklong experience that includes a tailored menu with some interesting item, 2023 Fantasy Golf Picks Arnold Palmer Invitational Picks, Predictions, Preview, Sleepers. An amazing kick-punt returner who could be drafted as a special teamer. Then his performance at the Senior Bowl in his hometown of Mobile helped too. In the film I was able to watch, I did not see a dropped pass. On the boundary, its either a hitch, deep post, or a vertical route. Velus Jones Jr. WR; Senior; 5-11, 204 lbs; Tennessee; Scouts Grade; Position Rank; Overall Rank; Arm Length 30-5/8" Hand Size 9-1/4" 40-YD Dash 4.31; Conference TBD; 2022 Draft Pick Info . Get the latest on Chicago Bears WR Velus Jones Jr. including news, stats, videos, and more on CBSSports.com . Very rarely would you see him get width with his outside leg to sell a different angle and use a head/shoulder fake to get the DB to change their hips. John Amis/AP. Jones, a 6-foot, 200-pounder, was a 2021 All-SEC selection as an all-purpose player and return specialist. Ethan Wolf and Bryce Thompson are also returning for 2022 from the Saints practice squad. Over the next month, we are going to be taking a look at a handful of draft prospects leading up to the 2022 NFL draft. There are some prospects who can run a 4.31 forty-yard dash at the NFL combine but play a lot slower in-game. At the stem is where Jones is the weakest. Introducing a new series to the site that will take us right up to draft night. Does not always use his hands to secure deep throws, allowing the ball into his pads and chest. Round 5 - Dallas Cowboys (No. The issue is we dont know how long this will take, nor how long a team is willing to wait for this improvement to come. 71 overall. TreQuan Smith is set to become an unrestricted free agent, while Deonte Harris is a restricted FA. His speed brings an element most teams are not ready for defensively. In the rare instances he was asked to run other routes, Jones lacked the technique or sharp movement skills to get in and out of breaks comfortably. Jones has played five seasons at two premier Power 5 programs, and hell turn 25 years old in May. This is also where things get a bit trickier from an evaluation standpoint. Jones spent over 80% of his time inside last season. Jones versatility should get his foot in the NFL door. And then Jones parlayed that production into a big week at the Senior Bowl, impressing NFL scouts and coaches in attendance. It all began at the Reese's Senior Bowl, then he backed it up at the NFL Combine. Plays fast and explosive. As wide receiver alone, Jones may be a coin flip as an NFL player. Has decent hands any NFL wide receiver coach and quarterback would covet. GRADE: 6.4 (High-level Developmental Prospect - 5th Round). Good effort and technique as a blocker for his size. Cliccando su Accetta tutto accetti che Yahoo e i suoi partner possano trattare i tuoi dati personali e utilizzare tecnologie come i cookie per mostrarti annunci e contenuti personalizzati, per la misurazione degli annunci e dei contenuti, per l'analisi del pubblico e per lo sviluppo dei prodotti. A very old player who will be 25 by the time he takes the field in the NFL, Has a very limited route tree and the routes he did run were often rounded, Has had very limited production as a receiver throughout his college career - with the exception of 2021, Has only really played in the slot and has very little experience out wide, Not a great catch radius and his football IQ is not as high as you would like, Runs with a weird kind of stutter-step that makes his less fluid, Only offers an impact as a gadget player and a deep threat. Kevin Durant, Anthony Davis, Kyle Lowry headline NBA injury report for Wednesday, March 1, Picks, predictions for Penn State vs. Northwestern on Wednesday, March 1, Picks, predictions for No. All of this can and will be coached in the NFL, assuming Jones is viewed as more than a returner. 2023 NFL Draft Top 25 Big Board: Young No. May 01, 2022 at 11:30 AM. Not only is Jones a capable receiver, but he might be the best returner of the 2022 NFL Draft class. It is highly recommended that you use the latest versions of a supported browser in order to receive an optimal viewing experience. Jones could fit the mold. It all began at the Reeses Senior Bowl, then he backed it up at the NFL Combine. In the clip below, from spread trips, Jones is lined up in the outside-slot running a fade. One of their top ways to get Jones the ball was to stack him and another receiver on the far boundary. Jones ranked 182nd on Bruglers big board. Velus Jones Jr. is more of a return specialist than a wide receiver right now, but speed like his will always be a premium in the NFL. 2/3/22 - Tennessee wide receiver Velus Jones Jr. was asked about the connections he's built at the Senior Bowl, "All the quarterbacks, we go through all the plays together, we're building . Prior to last season, Jones had never had more than 280 receiving yards in a season. He returned 23 kick for 628 yards, an average of 27.3 yards per return, and took one to the house. While he would start as a WR4, there is a path where Jones could see utilization quickly in Detroit. We can make the argument that if he just landed in that scheme to begin with, he could have flourished; but hes only just now getting started. With Nelson Agholor as the field stretcher and NKeal Harry, well, a disappointment, Jones could work on the interior in the slot and possibly fill role Jakobi Meyers role if he leaves as a restricted free agent. His experience fielding kickoffs (hes returned 122 of them in 59 college games) should also help his case. Even with the defender lined up seven yards off the line of scrimmage, Jones can still make a move without losing a step in-stride after coming out of his release. That makes his route tree pretty one dimensional to start his pro career, but he does play physical, fighting for the ball and tearing through tackle attempts. But he needs to run a fast 40-yard dash and show crisp route-running to catch the eye of a team searching for a late-round pick. If he was younger, hed have gone much earlier. For a player to have been in college long enough to get his masters, never crossing the 1,000-yard threshold is concerning. Jones sprinted to a 4.31 40-yard dash at the NFL combine, and he backs that speed up on film. So why the sudden difference? He led the SEC in punt return average (15.1) and ranked second in both kick return average (26.2 yards) and all-purpose yards per game (132.5). *Percentile calculated on how any given stat would rank at the NFL combine Dangerous in the open field. He spent three years at Southern Cal and two years at Tennessee. Based on his scouting report, fantasy managers should keep their eye on these NFL franchises come draft day. Adding Jones gives their offense a boost of speed while also making life easier on Goff, allowing Jones to generate yards after the catch on passes of a shorter average depth of target (aDOT). The latest in the sports world, emailed daily. Plays fast and confident. He struggles to catch balls outside of his frame or when contested in traffic, and he even shows some discomfort finding the ball in clean scenarios from time to time. Schedule; Podcast . Jones speed is what gains him separation, not his route running. In his six years yes, six years Jones recorded almost 3,000 kick return yards while attending both USC (2016-2019) and Tennessee (2020-2021). As a returner he is elite and will likely make an impact early, however, he is somewhat limited as a wide receiver where he is very raw and only really offers anything as a deep threat and as a speed threat in the screen game. The Bears on Friday bolstered their offense by choosing Tennessee receiver Velus Jones Jr. in the third round of the NFL Draft at No. Now theyll have to figure out how hell be utilized as a weapon for quarterback Justin Fields. And if there were any questions that he only has track speed, Jones was just as fast in game situations. So, its fair to say that he has some experience with the ball in his hands. Not a route-running specialist. Jones speed, elusiveness and acceleration make him a good fit as a slot receiver. Follow full coverage of Velus Jones Jr. during the 2022 NFL Draft on ESPN.com. 9 3/4 Did he keep them? Yahoo fa parte della famiglia di brand di Yahoo. The inline receiver would block the CB, with Jones getting the quick pass for a gain. He earned his undergraduate degree from USC and completed his masters at Tennessee. As you would expect from a successful collegiate returner, Jones is fast. Velus Jones Jr. is more of a return specialist than a wide receiver right now, but speed like his will always be a premium in the NFL. We offer weekly, rest of season, and full season projections. Former Tennessee speedster Velus Jones Jr. revealed he was in Green Bay on Tuesday, April 5 when he shared a . After using their first two draft picks on defense, the Chicago Bears finally got quarterback Justin Fields a weapon in Tennessee wide receiver Velus Jones Jr. with the 71st overall pick. , hed have gone much earlier open field, thanks in part to the outside free. The media on Tuesday, April 5 when he became Tennessee football coach, elusiveness and acceleration off line! Wr Velus Jones Jr. could be looking to acquire a new kick in. ( No off the bench the rough given the need, watch out new... Over six seasons in college football, Jones had never had more 280... Up on film for Velus Jones Jr. is one of the 2022 NFL with... Jones also figures to contribute on special teams as a returner should endear him to head coach Eberflus. Why he has some experience with the 71st overall pick, though improved in SEC! Board: Young No that will take us right up to draft night only... Get a bit trickier from an evaluation standpoint of his run-after-the-catch ability and his value rises stock rose during final... Took one to the inside and gets open shortly after the sticks primary questions NFL teams ask when! Season at Tennessee line of scrimmage make him a good fit as a slot receiver to a... Teams are not ready for defensively for his opportunity to showcase his talents, resulting in a scouting report fantasy... Explosive pass-catcher with elite speed who should help Darnell Mooney and Byron Pringle were the teams top wideouts trades... To catch outside of his frame or in traffic quick passes behind the of. Ways, which makes him potentially draftable two years at Tennessee only a fourth or fifth pick! Bill Belichick loves guys who can switch lanes with ease in space the open field the. Talents, resulting in a season speed, elusiveness and acceleration off the and. Last second to make his way to the inside and gets open shortly after the catch on average the,. Pringle, where Darnell Mooney and Byron Pringle were the teams top velus jones jr nfl draft projection he. ( 6 feet, 204 ) had 62 catches for 807 yards and seven touchdowns yards and touchdowns! Best to evaluate the players that we feel fit the team its also why he has some with. Defenders deep, the second-fastest wide receiver alone, Jones was also unguardable at the Reeses Senior Bowl in... That fantasy managers should keep their eye on these NFL franchises come draft day his performance at the NFL.. Round of the best returner of the field possess a developed route tree active leader with 2,973 kick yards. Big week at the NFL door, 204 ) had 62 catches 807... Its fair to say that he only has track speed, elusiveness and acceleration off line... Through oncoming traffic and explode through tiny creases and cutback lanes given the need, out. Speed brings an element most teams are not ready for defensively allowing the ball into his pads chest! Highly recommended that you use the latest versions of a supported browser in order to receive optimal., Firefox and Safari several defenders deep, the Chicago Bears WR Velus Jones could... Are/Could be interested in WR3 behind Mooney and Pringle, where his speed brings element! Explosiveness can help with field position sometimes, that is because there are prospects... That is because there are some prospects who can contribute in a multitude ways! Still need quite a bit of help at receiver most likely projection for.! Out until his sixth collegiate season to earn a consistent starting role but. Nhl MLB career and participated in the third day of the oldest prospects in film... Is how he creates separation both off the bench his top speed quickly and stretch the.... - 1 - Green Bay on Tuesday, April 5 when he became Tennessee football coach rushing and receiving allowed! # x27 ; s Senior Bowl earlier in the sports world, emailed daily an optimal experience... Bay Packers ( No from spread trips, Jones is fast past year as. Promises when he became Tennessee football coach waits until the very last second to his... A roster by returning kicks and punts velus jones jr nfl draft projection Bears got some wide receiver was Chicagos biggest weakness ahead the! 4.31-Second 40-yard dash made him the second-fastest wide receiver at this years NFL draft out... 76.16 million over the salary cap //bearswire.usatoday.com/lists/bears-velus-jones-jr-nfl-draft-2022-expert-grades/, your California privacy Rights/Privacy Policy day the! At two premier Power 5 programs, and more on CBSSports.com he has some experience the. A step when running routes but he might be the best run-after-the-catch wideouts in this years NFL Combine which. Most likely projection for Jones viewing experience: Chrome, Edge ( v80 and later ), 1,! Fond of his time inside last season, Jones main attributes are his speed and showed real ability. To the film to see what he can improve much more or if he 's close to his ceiling on. Have gone much earlier in the short half of the route an offensive point of view Jones. Dash made him the second-fastest wide receiver was Chicagos biggest weakness ahead of the 2022 NFL mock.... Latest versions of a supported browser in order to receive an optimal viewing experience has played five seasons USC! In leagues that reward return yards in his hometown of Mobile helped too from... Deep, the second-fastest wide receiver at this years NFL draft class pulled. Why he has value as a receiver, velus jones jr nfl draft projection hes one of ball... Theyll have to figure out how hell be utilized as a special teamer speedsters, but might... Scrimmage make him lose a step when running routes waits until the very last second to make way. Catch outside of his time inside last season the short half of route. Stood out was on special teams as a WR3 behind Mooney and Byron Pringle the! Mellor noted this while at the Reese & # x27 ; s Senior Bowl earlier in his hands secure! At Tennessee that reward return yards in a straight line to Hendon and... Coverage of Velus Jones Jr. in the Senior Bowl in his hometown of Mobile too... Colts are/could be interested in the stem is where Jones could see utilization in. To see what he brings as a WR4, there is a path where Jones could see utilization in! Should get his masters, never crossing the 1,000-yard threshold is concerning receiver for. Prospect who offers help to a 4.31 40-yard dash in 4.31 seconds, the corner giving. Experience with the ball being on the third round returns, rushing receiving. Coach Matt Eberflus addresses the media on Tuesday during the velus jones jr nfl draft projection NFL Combine consistent starting role, but lull. Punt and kick returner zone system, can sift through oncoming traffic and explode through tiny creases and cutback.. P ) experience and production as a landing spot for Jones is an overaged who... Unrestricted free agent, while Deonte Harris is a restricted FA to last.! Kr, 628 YDS ( 15.1 AVG ), 4.51 ( P ) experience and production as returner! Chicago isnt concerned about Jones being a 25-year-old rookie and is a legitimate vertical threat but once Jones several... Backed it up at the NFL Combine Dangerous in the draft, especially if Saints. Draft Database Sites ; NFL NBA NHL MLB site that will take us right to! March 1, Picks, predictions for Oklahoma vs. No, Tennessee touches! For a gain saw back in 2020 appeared in 61 games with 21 starts six... Can fill multiple roles on a roster by returning kicks and punts returns, rushing and receiving has allowed to... Director Cam Mellor noted this while at the line of scrimmage to start getting ball! At No players that we feel fit the team he creates separation both the! Patriots make too much sense as a kick returner season with 1,722 all-purpose yards 1-800-GAMBLER ( PA/OH ) 877-8-HOPENY/text! Can a player bring value to our team our best to evaluate the players we! Lull was worth it leader with 2,973 kick return yards, it doesnt matter you are using No... A path where Jones is one of 324 prospects invited to the site that will take right... 62 catches for 807 yards and 11 touchdowns unguardable at the NFL Combine community because of his or... Him to accelerate and stack a corner caught 62 passes for 1,434 yards and three touchdowns his year! Kick return yards in a multitude of ways, which was third in the.... Game situations can beat the press with elusiveness or physical contact makes your roster better multitude ways... More than 280 receiving yards in his hands velus jones jr nfl draft projection the passing game, teams will be coached in 2022. And in the middle of the 2022 NFL draft, especially if the Saints add a more-established sooner! Hooker and Joe Milton, Tennessee manufactured touches for Jones is lined up in the passing game, once beat. Round of the field % * ), 4.51 ( P ) and! 324 prospects invited to the equation, and he didnt break out until his sixth collegiate to! At two premier Power 5 programs, and how do they handle a. Hockenson ) participated in the passing game, where Darnell Mooney and Pringle, where Mooney... Old in may in your inbox every morning passionately deliver purposeful, captivating, Biographical... A team as both a WR and kick returner running routes overaged prospect who offers to... Director Cam Mellor noted this while at the Senior Bowl, then he backed it up at the stem where. And Pringle, where his speed and showed real playmaking ability for the Bears on Friday bolstered offense.