6 Bears on the Bubble Ahead of 2024 Training Camp

2. Velus Jones, Jr., Wide Receiver

Velus Jones, Jr. was never given a fair shake. A talented return man who spent four years at USC and two at Tennessee, Jones had just one year with decent production as a receiver. Despite this, the Bears selected him in the third round as a way to address their need at wide receiver.

Unsurprisingly, Jones didn’t offer much during his rookie campaign. A hamstring injury forced him to miss the first three weeks and he wound up playing in 12 games total. Jones had 103 yards rushing and 107 through the air with two total touchdowns. Considering his experience at the position, this wasn’t a poor start but the expectations that came with being the only young receiving option made it feel like a bust.

In year two, he was used with even less frequency on offense. Jones had 51 yards on the ground and just 20 yards on four catches. He did, however, continue to do well as the kick returner.

After posting 607 yard on kickoff returns in 2022, Jones had 435 this past year. With the new rules on kickoffs, there’s a chance he continues to make the team. There’s also a chance Chicago decide to move on.

The Bears added a couple of playmakers at receiver, selecting Rome Odunze in the draft and trading for Keenan Allen from the Los Angeles Chargers.

Jones is now buried on the depth chart and could have competition for the return job. Tyler Scott, DeAndre Carter, and Dante Pettis can all run kicks back — and are also wideouts. Jones is going to have to fight for his spot and there’s no guarantee he locks it down.