Matt Eberflus details the reasons for Velus Jones Jr
Photo credit: NBC Sports
Velus Jones Jr. shines in preseason, secures spot on Chicago Bears roster.
Velus Jones Jr., once known as the "Ferret King" for his unique college pet, has successfully transitioned from wide receiver to running back, earning a spot on the Chicago Bears' 53-man roster. This transformation was highlighted in the recent "Hard Knocks: Training Camp with the Chicago Bears," where Jones was a standout figure.
Jones' impressive preseason run, accumulating 158 yards and two touchdowns, peaked in the finale against the Kansas City Chiefs where he dashed for 111 yards and a touchdown. Despite the presence of established running backs like D'Andre Swift, Khalil Herbert, and Roschon Johnson, Jones has carved out his niche, adding a dynamic layer to the Bears' offense.
Coach Matt Eberflus applauded Jones' adaptability and work ethic, which were pivotal in his roster inclusion.
"He made it just by his efforts, and the production he had in practice, in the preseason games, and his willingness to be able to adjust and adapt and then be able to get that done in terms of his performance,"
Eberflus commented. He also praised the coaching team, including Chad Morton, Jennifer King, Chris Beatty, and Shane Waldron, for their roles in developing Jones.Eberflus sees Jones as a versatile threat that opposing teams must plan for meticulously. "We can put him in the backfield, we can spread him out, we can do a lot of different things and that's a team need, a benefit," he explained. This flexibility suggests that Jones will not only fill traditional roles but also create unique challenges for defenses.
Jones, a third-round pick in 2022, may not have initially impressed as a wide receiver, but his recent performances suggest he has much to offer in his new role. While opportunities might be limited with the stacked lineup, Jones has demonstrated he can capitalize on them, making a strong case for increased involvement in the Bears' strategic plays for 2024.
The Bears' offense appears to be on an innovative path, with Jones poised to become an essential element of their strategy, potentially changing the dynamics on the field. His journey from a college student with a pet ferret to a professional NFL player making waves on the field underscores a story of resilience and adaptability that resonates well beyond the gridiron.
| POLL | ||
31 AOUT | 113 ANSWERS Matt Eberflus details the reasons for Velus Jones Jr Do you think Velus Jones Jr. will become a key player in the Bears' offense this season? | ||
| Yes | 66 | 58.4 % |
| No | 47 | 41.6 % |
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