The Chicago Bears are in the midst of a thrilling training camp with high expectations thanks to new head coach Ben Johnson's innovative schemes. Following a disappointing rookie campaign for No. 1 pick Caleb Williams, fans hope that the offense can quickly become one of the NFC's best with better guidance.
Led by D.J. Moore, Rome Odunze, D'Andre Swift, and rookies Colston Loveland and Luther Burden, the skill-position group is in great shape. That said, Chicago has invested heavily on that side of the ball in recent years, and some of those players just haven't worked out.
One of those guys is former third-round pick Velus Jones Jr., who appeared to be a cut candidate with the New Orleans Saints but is turning heads at training camp. It's a frustrating reality for Bears fans, as Jones' versatility would've been a perfect fit for Johnson's brilliance.
Velus Jones Jr. showing off his speed 🔥 pic.twitter.com/7dYJ9k8ELC
— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) July 30, 2025
Former Bears RB/WR Velus Jones Jr. Shining at Saints Training Camp
New Orleans Saints head coach Kellen Moore has a similar reputation to Johnson as a great offensive mind, and he's making use of Jones' speed early in camp. Videos have shown him blazing by defenders, representing the kind of Swiss Army knife that's grown more coveted in recent years.
Jones spent part of three seasons with Chicago, notching just 300 yards from scrimmage with a pair of TDs during that stretch. He's already 28 years old, so his upside is limited, but he could still be a valuable gadget player with return chops as well. At the very least, his presence on the field forces defenses to consider that a trick play could be in the works, keeping them on their toes.
Kellen Moore just had a diabolical play call. About 25 seconds left in a hurry up period. Calls a draw. Defense caught off guard. Velus Jones runs in a long TD
— Nick Underhill (@nick_underhill) July 30, 2025
It's worth noting that Jones still faces an uphill battle to make the roster. Even still, he's off to a good start. The Bears should be happy with their group of wideouts, especially after adding veteran pieces like Olamide Zaccheaus, Devin Duvernay, and Miles Boykin. There wouldn't have been a place for Jones on the roster, yet his impressive performance is a sign of what could have been for the former Tennessee star.
Having someone who can be deployed in a Deebo Samuel-like role obviously provides value. There have been murmors of Moore taking on that type of responsibility at camp, indicating that Johnson values versatility. Jones didn't work out for the Bears, though it's clear that the organization is still trying to chase after what he could've been.
Should he surprisingly make the Saints' final 53-man roster, it'll represent just how far he's come as a professional player.