With the initial flurry of NFL free agency now over and the big names off the market, smaller deals are trickling in. Short-term contracts and "prove it" deals for lower-profile players will continue until training camp comes around.
On Saturday, a familiar face to many Bears fans found himself a new NFL home. Velus Jones Jr, who was Chicago's third-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, just signed with the New Orleans Saints, per ESPN's Jeremy Fowler.
Wide receiver Velus Jones Jr. is signing with the #Saints, per source. Former third-round pick by Chicago was last with Carolina.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) March 16, 2025
NFL News: WR Velus Jones Jr. Joins the Saints
This will be Jones' third team since he was released by the Bears on October 25, 2024. He first landed with the Jaguars' practice squad before the Panthers signed him to their active roster for the final few weeks of the regular season. Jones is staying in the NFC South but moving to another team that finished the season 5-12.
It has been a disappointing four seasons for Jones in the NFL. He was never able to establish himself as a wideout in the league, his most productive stint coming as a rookie when he finished with nine catches for 103 yards and one touchdown.
His calling card has been his kick return ability. Once he bobbled a kickoff during Chicago's season opener against the Titans in 2024, the writing was on the wall for Jones. He was a healthy scratch for the next five games before his release.
The Bears tried everything to make it work with Jones. The coaching staff tried to transition him into a running back before the season, and GM Ryan Poles reportedly turned down a trade offer for him during the season. Yet, they weren't able to get what they hoped to get out of him.
Now, Jones will try to re-establish his career, both as a return man and a playmaker. Looking at how things have been going for him over the last few years, this may be one of the final chances Jones gets.