3 numbers prove why the Chicago Bears stole Velus Jones Jr. in the draft
By Ryan Heckman
Chicago Bears rookie Velus Jones Jr. averaged more yards after the catch than the majority of receivers in the draft
When looking at the wide receivers taken ahead of Jones, there are some excellent names. Again, this is one of the deeper and more talented receiving classes in recent memory. But, here are a few names that averaged less yards after the catch than Jones:
Garrett Wilson, Drake London, Chris Olave, Jahan Dotson, Skyy Moore, Christian Watson, Tyquan Thornton, John Metchie, Alec Pierce, Wan’Dale Robinson and Jalen Tolbert.
Take this number for example: Jones averaged 8.32 yards after the catch last season. So, unless the majority of his receptions were behind the line of scrimmage, that means Jones was a walking first down.
Do not skim over that fact. This is why the Bears drafted Jones.
Chicago needs to move the chains on offense. The best way to measure a player in terms of how he will impact your offense is in yards after the catch. For a young quarterback like Justin Fields, it will be a luxury to get the ball out quickly to a guy who will then likely move the chains on his own.
This type of ability cannot be acquired enough in today’s NFL. Looking at guys like Deebo Samuel and Cooper Kupp, the league’s best receivers are getting better and better after the catch.