Jaguars Sign WR Velus Jones to Practice Squad to Boost Depth Ahead of Playoff Push
The Jacksonville Jaguars have officially signed wide receiver Velus Jones to their practice squad, bringing in a versatile talent to bolster their roster as they eye a deep playoff run. Jones, a former standout with experience in both the NFL and college ranks, joins the Jaguars at a pivotal moment in their season. Known for his speed and playmaking ability, Jones adds depth to Jacksonville’s receiving corps and could provide the spark needed to give the Jaguars an edge in key matchups down the stretch.
Velus Jones entered the NFL with a reputation for being a dynamic playmaker, especially on special teams. After an impressive college career at USC and Tennessee, Jones was drafted by the Chicago Bears in 2022. In Chicago, he showcased his skills as both a wide receiver and a return specialist, demonstrating an ability to make explosive plays in open space. While his opportunities were limited with the Bears, he showed flashes of potential that have caught the attention of Jacksonville’s coaching staff.
Jaguars head coach Doug Pederson expressed optimism about Jones’s addition to the practice squad, noting that his athleticism and versatility could make him a valuable asset. “Velus brings a unique skill set that can complement our current roster,” Pederson said. “He has the potential to make an impact on special teams and, if called upon, could contribute to our offensive schemes as well.”
For the Jaguars, Jones’s signing reflects their commitment to enhancing depth at wide receiver as they prepare for the playoff stretch. The Jaguars’ offense, led by quarterback Trevor Lawrence, has been consistently productive, but additional depth at wide receiver could relieve some pressure from primary targets like Calvin Ridley and Christian Kirk. Jones’s speed and ability to stretch the field could also give the Jaguars more flexibility in their play-calling, potentially opening up opportunities for big plays.
Moreover, Jones’s experience as a return specialist could be beneficial for Jacksonville’s special teams unit. His speed and vision make him a threat in the return game, providing the Jaguars with an option to improve their field position in crucial moments. In high-stakes games, an explosive return can be the difference between a win and a loss, and the Jaguars’ staff may look to utilize Jones’s skills in this capacity.
As the Jaguars continue their push toward a playoff berth, Jones’s signing to the practice squad adds a layer of preparedness that could prove valuable. While he will need time to acclimate to the Jaguars’ system, the coaching staff has expressed confidence in his ability to quickly adapt and make an impact if called up to the active roster. The addition of Velus Jones to Jacksonville’s practice squad is a proactive move that signals the team’s commitment to maximizing their chances in the postseason.
With the playoffs in sight, the Jaguars hope Jones’s presence will provide both depth and dynamism, as they strive to make a strong postseason run and compete at the highest level.
