Bears GM Makes Surprise Velus Jones Comments on Sunday After Release
As the NFL trade deadline quickly approaches, the Chicago Bears made one big roster move earlier in the week, deciding to release 2022 third-round pick Velus Jones Jr. Despite being regarded as a playmaker who could give Chicago a boost as a receiver, kick returner and even running back, that dream never materialized -- much to Bears fans' frustrations.
Jones' release was greeted by a huge sigh of relief from those in the Windy City, but it appears his time in Chicago might not be over just yet.
Ryan Poles on @ESPN1000 pregame show speaking about the release of Velus Jones Jr. on Friday: "...As you go through the season, roles shift. We’ve got to account for that to make sure the guys that are active and on our 53 have the ability to help us throughout the season. With…
— Courtney Cronin (@CourtneyRCronin) October 27, 2024
Bears GM Ryan Poles reflected on the departure of Jones prior to kickoff on Sunday. He noted that a "shift" in roles at the midseason mark squeezed Jones out.
However, Poles also specifically mentioned the possibility of the Tennessee product ending back up on the practice squad if he's not claimed via waivers. Chicago's GM added that he still believes Jones has some "upside" at RB:
"We wish him luck if he’s on a different roster or if he ends up back on our practice squad (if he clears waivers). I do think there’s upside as a running back, so maybe he has an opportunity to do that. But we’ll see how it goes."
- Ryan Poles
Suffice it to say, Bears fans are ready to see the Jones era come to an end. He's totaled just 300 yards from scrimmage across 27 appearances, taking up a valuable roster spot that's been squandered on a prospect who clearly hasn't worked out.
Hopefully Poles is able to resist the urge and officially say goodbye to Jones. Being able to let go of players you didn't hit on is key for any top decision-maker, even if it hurts to not see them reach the potential you were betting on.
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