For one, Jones does not possess a developed route tree. As noted, Jones hands are great. All other NFL-related trademarks are trademarks of the National Football League. Jones (6 feet, 204) had 62 catches for 807 yards and seven touchdowns last season. Check out his YAC from the 2021 season: Best Draft WRs after the catch pic.twitter.com/A46NWLmVR3, No Flags Film (@NoFlagsFilm) March 30, 2022. : Josh Heupel made 10 promises when he became Tennessee football coach. Jones could step right in and make a difference as a return man. When you just run a route or bend it off at the stem, NFL DBs wont fall for it. 209, Cincinnati Bengals. Oh, and how do they handle being a projected $76.16 million over the salary cap? Jones' speed and yards-after-catch potential are worth trying to develop at wide receiver, though that may be a longshot for someone set to be 25-years-old as a rookie. (4%*), 121 (C) Yahoo fa parte della famiglia di brand di Yahoo. Velus Jones Jr. is more of a return specialist than a wide receiver right now, but speed like his will always be a premium in the NFL. An amazing kick-punt returner who could be drafted as a special teamer. So there's a question of whether he can improve much more or if he's close to his ceiling. 21+ (19+ CA-ONT) (18+ NH/WY). Wide receiver was Chicagos biggest weakness ahead of the NFL draft, where Darnell Mooney and Byron Pringle were the teams top wideouts. Jones will participate in drills at the combine during the NFL Network coverage of quarterbacks, tight ends and wide receivers from 4-11 p.m. Listed at 6-foot-even and exactly 200 pounds, Jones broke out in 2021 during Burns first year at Tennessee after transferring from USC a season earlier. Still, he possesses elite speed and showed real playmaking ability for the . Listed at 6-foot . It is highly recommended that you use the latest versions of a supported browser in order to receive an optimal viewing experience. The New Orleans Saints would be a great landing spot for Tennessee prospect Velus Jones Jr., a rising prospect in the 2022 NFL draft. DCS chief: Tenn. has stopped housing kids in offices in all but one county, How Velus Jones' 40 time at NFL Combine may help Tennessee football WR's draft stock, Your California Privacy Rights / Privacy Policy. The Packers could be looking to acquire a new kick returner in the 2022 NFL draft. There are some prospects who can run a 4.31 forty-yard dash at the NFL combine but play a lot slower in-game. He brings an element of speed you cant teach and instantly makes your roster better. Jones sprinted to a 4.31 40-yard dash at the NFL combine, and he backs that speed up on film. Former Tennessee wide receiver and returner Velus Jones Jr. was ranked by Kiper Jr. as the fifth best returner in the 2022 NFL draft. Where he really stood out was on special teams as a kick returner. But whats interesting is that Jones didnt hit his stride until Burns started coaching him; in his first 46 games, most of them at USC, he totaled just 58 receptions for 627 yards and 4 touchdowns. He would be a good pick on the third day of the draft, especially if the Saints add a more-established weapon sooner. It all began at the Reese's Senior Bowl, then he backed it up at the NFL Combine. Mostly a screen-and-go ball player at this stage. In his four years at USC, Jones recorded just 347 yards. historically in the player's position group (Higher value represents better perfomance). Even on his TD against Alabama, despite the ball being on the 11-yard line, the corner was giving him an 8-yard cushion. As one NFL season ends, the next is set to begin with the 2022 NFL Draft on the horizon. In the rare instances he was asked to run other routes, Jones lacked the technique or sharp movement skills to get in and out of breaks comfortably. Fantasy Impact As fantasy managers watch the NFL Draft, what does Velus Jones Jr.'s scouting report say, and which teams could be potential landing spots? After opting to go defense with the first two picks, Bears general manager Ryan Poles went out an added a speedy receiver in Tennessee's Velus Jones Jr. with the 71st overall selection in the . All Rights Reserved. In the latter rounds of fantasy, where we are betting on profiles and talent, Jones makes sense as a player who will make the 53-man roster. The NFL . Maybe Jones joins them. *Percentile calculated on how any given stat would rank at the NFL combine Comfortable running vertical routes. He was a 2019 All-Pac-12 performer as a return specialist and a 2021 All-SEC selection as an all-purpose player and return specialist. All rights reserved. As you would expect from a successful collegiate returner, Jones is fast. Top gear can separate from anyone. His 4.31-second 40-yard dash made him the second-fastest wide receiver at this years NFL combine. 1. The following browsers are supported: Chrome, Edge (v80 and later), Firefox and Safari. Jones, a 6-foot, 200-pounder, spent three years at Southern Cal and two years at Tennessee. The 6-foot, 200-pounder caught 120 passes for 1,434 yards and 11 touchdowns. Plays too loose and allows cornerbacks to get the jump on him. Velus Jones is an overaged prospect who offers help to a team as both a WR and kick returner. Also, Tennessee brought him into the slot, which is where he projects in the NFL. It takes little time for him to accelerate and stack a corner. There are some prospects who rise their stock throughout the draft process; Velus Jones Jr is one of those guys. He earned his undergraduate degree from USC and completed his masters at Tennessee. Why Tennessee offensive lineman Cade Mays' draft stock is unpredictable at NFL Scouting Combine. 2/3/22 - Tennessee wide receiver Velus Jones Jr. was asked about the connections he's built at the Senior Bowl, "All the quarterbacks, we go through all the plays together, we're building . Jones has the lateral speed that doesnt make him lose a step when running routes. There are some prospects who rise their stock throughout the draft process; Velus Jones Jr is one of those guys. (29%*), 74 2/8 Good effort and technique as a blocker for his size. Now theyll have to figure out how hell be utilized as a weapon for quarterback Justin Fields. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) (CO/IL/IN/LA/MD/MI/NJ/PA/TN/WV/WY), 1-800-NEXT STEP (AZ), 1-800-522-4700 (KS/NH), 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), 1-800-BETS OFF (IA), visit OPGR.org (OR), or 1-888-532-3500(VA). As wide receiver alone, Jones may be a coin flip as an NFL player. Next up is Tennessee wide receiver Velus Jones Jr. Last year, as a receiver, he caught 62 passes for 807 yards and seven touchdowns. Now being mocked to go in the second or third round. Given Mac Jones quick decision-making abilities and accuracy, when Velus Jones is able to gain separation on a quick slant, he knows there is a chance for substantial YAC due to his rapid pace. 2023 NFL Enterprises LLC. Velus Jones Jr. Even with the defender lined up seven yards off the line of scrimmage, Jones can still make a move without losing a step in-stride after coming out of his release. Did he keep them? Velus Jones Jr. leads team in receiving yards in Week 16 Velus Jones Jr. hauled in two of four targets for 52 receiving yards in the Bears' 35-13 Week 16 loss to the Bills. Lets go to the film to see what he can add to an NFL roster. Fits a zone system, can sift through oncoming traffic and explode through tiny creases and cutback lanes. And while we did get back to a normal NFL Scouting Combine a few weeks ago, a fair amount of top prospects decided to forego working out in Indianapolis, instead choosing to hit the field at their respective school's pro day.. As the reports begin to surface, CBSSports.com will be tracking all of the results . Plays like this are why Jones averaged 12.8 yards per reception at Tennessee, with 8.1 coming after the catch on average. That rings true both with and without the ball in his hands, making Jones as much of a deep threat as he is a yards-after-catch weapon. He spent three years at Southern Cal and two years at Tennessee. 2023 NFL Draft Top 25 Big Board: Young No. tight end Cole Kmet and wide receiver Velus Jones Jr. speak with the media in the locker room following the Bears' Week 18 loss to . One of their top ways to get Jones the ball was to stack him and another receiver on the far boundary. With Nelson Agholor as the field stretcher and NKeal Harry, well, a disappointment, Jones could work on the interior in the slot and possibly fill role Jakobi Meyers role if he leaves as a restricted free agent. Clicca su Gestisci impostazioni per maggiori informazioni e per gestire le tue scelte. Jones turns 25 in a few weeks, which turned off some teams. Not until the defender opens his hips and commits to the inside, does Jones make his break. The Jones pick garnered criticism from the draft community because of his age and draft projection. The draft begins April 28. Still, he possesses elite speed and showed real playmaking ability for the Vols in 2021. He showed progress in that area late in his college career, which is why his receiving production rose last season. Prior to last season, Jones had never had more than 280 receiving yards in a season. What will the New Orleans Saints look like in 2022? It started with his measurements as Jones Jr. measured in . Matt Eberflus on ideal prospects: 'They have to have a love for the game' | Press Conference. Knowing what he brings as a returner should endear him to head coach Dan Campbell. He may not have the immediate acceleration of some other stud speedsters, but once Jones gets rolling, he is tough to catch from behind. He waits until the very last second to make his way to the outside. So why the sudden difference? 2023 Mock Drafts 2024 Mock Drafts 2025 Mock Drafts. And if there were any questions that he only has track speed, Jones was just as fast in game situations. He finished last season as the FBS active leader with 2,973 kick return yards in his career and participated in the Senior Bowl. His limitations in the passing game mean that he probably wont see the field much, but he could pull off a few big plays to help his team. Past. Smooth runner who can switch lanes with ease in space. https://bearswire.usatoday.com/lists/bears-velus-jones-jr-nfl-draft-2022-expert-grades/, Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy. Though he can excel at both, Jones' build-up speed and weaving rushing style make him a great fit to return kicks from Day 1. . Tennessee wide receiver/return specialistVelus Jones Jr. is working out at the NFL Scouting Combine this week in hopes of convincing a team to draft him. Scouting Report: Summary. Returns, rushing and receiving has allowed Jones to rack up over 4,700 all-purpose yards. After six seasons in college football, Jones was projected to be only a fourth or fifth round pick in this years NFL draft. Velus Jones Jr. is more of a return specialist than a wide receiver right now, but speed like his will always be a premium in the NFL. Please play responsibly. Despite the lesser QB play from Kedon Slovis to Hendon Hooker and Joe Milton, Tennessee manufactured touches for Jones. An impressive athlete with very quick acceleration to reach his top speed quickly and stretch the field. Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy. John Amis/AP. After using their first two draft picks on defense, the Chicago Bears finally got quarterback Justin Fields a weapon in Tennessee wide receiver Velus Jones Jr. with the 71st overall pick. In 2021, Jones had 62 receptions for 807 yards and seven TDs for the Vols in the best season of his career. Maybe Jones will be great, but I dont get this pick. Last season, Jones caught 62 passes for over 800 yards, seven touchdowns and had three games where he had over 100+ receiving yards. How Jones projects as a wide receiver in the NFL is a bit of an unknown considering his modest offensive production throughout a college career that began in 2016 at USC and culminated in him catching 62 passes for 807 yards and seven touchdowns at Tennessee. But Jones played five seasons in two premier Power 5 programs, and hell turn 25 in May. WR Velus Jones Jr.: NFL Draft scouting report and fantasy football profile, Fantasy Basketball Picks: Top DraftKings NBA DFS Plays for March 1. Began his career at USC before transferring to Tennessee in 2020. Velus Jones Jr.s speed and explosiveness are undeniable. Velus Jones Jr.'s first NFL TD come via Herculean pylon reach. This gave Jones more room at the line of scrimmage to start getting the ball earlier in his routes. (67%*), 30 7/8 Those little nuances are how high-level receivers get separation. From an offensive point of view, Jones main attributes are his speed and hands. That said, hes an explosive pass-catcher with elite speed who should help Darnell Mooney challenge opposing defenses. Introducing a new series to the site that will take us right up to draft night. Mock Draft Database Sites; NFL NBA NHL MLB. The Bears did recognize their need for more speedy playmaking at wideout to complement Darnell Mooney and give Justin Fields a field-stretcher, but this is a bit of a head-scratcher for a mid Day 3 prospect. NFL and the NFL shield design are registered trademarks of the National Football League.The team names, logos and uniform designs are registered trademarks of the teams indicated. McShay's NFL draft All-Satellite team: The 2022 class' best playmakers in space . He was clocked as the second-fastest offensive player at the Senior Bowl, according to Zebra Technology, which measures players speed in pads in live action. This is what will keep him on a 53-man roster. Given the need, watch out for New Orleans to look at Jones later in the draft. It took until his sixth collegiate season to earn a consistent starting role, but the lull was worth it. Tennessee footballs Velus Jones Jr. was selected by theChicago Bears in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft with the 71st overall pick. With Jones turning 25 years old at start of the 2022 NFL season, there are some concerns within the draft community on how much he could actually improve after getting to the next level. Sure, his speed is great. Not a route-running specialist. In his six years yes, six years Jones recorded almost 3,000 kick return yards while attending both USC (2016-2019) and Tennessee (2020-2021). He was heavily involved in quick passes behind the line of scrimmage. It took until his 2021 season at Tennessee to put it all together, recording 62 receptions for 807 yards and 7 touchdowns. 23 KR, 628 YDS (27.3 AVG), 1 TD, 18 PR, 272 YDS (15.1 AVG). Call 1-800-GAMBLER (PA/OH) or 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). If Jones can get on an NFL team who already has a dominant X receiver, he can be a very productive complementary piece from the slot and on special teams. But its also why he has value as a returner. But what is great about this play is how he was untouched when making his way up field. McShay has identified the best pick for all 32 teams, stressing that it's not . 0:43. In our latest installment of scouting reports to help guide your fantasy football teams, we look at Tennessee WR Velus Jones Jr. What are Jones strengths and weaknesses, which teams could be potential landing spots for him in the NFL Draft, and what is his fantasy outlook? Six-year player, thanks in part to the added year of COVID-19 eligibility. Doesnt quite play to that level. Larry Mayer. In the passing game, teams will be drawn to his acceleration and ability to get down the field fast. The Bears passed up on a handful of more proven receivers, including Jalen Tolbert, Calvin Austin III and David Bell. DeAndre Hopkins Dynasty Profile: Fantasy Outlook, Value, Projections, and Rankings, Keenan Allen Dynasty Profile: Fantasy Outlook, Value, Projections, and Rankings, Dalvin Cook Dynasty Profile: Fantasy Outlook, Value, Projections, and Rankings, James Conner Dynasty Profile: Fantasy Outlook, Value, Projections, and Rankings, Alvin Kamara Dynasty Profile: Fantasy Outlook, Value, Projections, and Rankings. (24%*), 4.31 (C) He finished as the FBS active leader with 2,973 kick return yards in his career. View fantasy football projections for Velus Jones Jr. (Chicago Bears). Hes a developmental prospect at receiver, but hes certainly got an intriguing skillset to work with. He led the SEC in punt return average (15.1) and ranked second in both kick return average (26.2 yards) and all-purpose yards per game (132.5). Jones was under-the-radar until last season, which makes him more intriguing as an NFL prospect, thought it probably means a late pick on day two or even day three. Tennessee wide receiver/return specialist Velus Jones Jr. is working out at the NFL Scouting Combine this week in hopes of convincing a team to draft him.. Jones, a 6-foot, 200-pounder, was a 2021 . Former Tennessee speedster Velus Jones Jr. revealed he was in Green Bay on Tuesday, April 5 when he shared a . Follow full coverage of Velus Jones Jr. during the 2022 NFL Draft on ESPN.com. Chicago isnt concerned about Jones being a 25-year-old rookie and is fond of his run-after-the-catch ability. The latest in the sports world, emailed daily. Tennessee wide receiver/return specialist Velus Jones Jr. is working out at the NFL Scouting Combine this week in hopes of convincing a team to draft him.. Jones, a 6-foot, 200-pounder, was a 2021 . Get the latest on Chicago Bears WR Velus Jones Jr. including news, stats, videos, and more on CBSSports.com . Old prospect whos already 25. The 2022 NFL draft will take place April 28-30 in Paradise, Nevada. One to note in particular is Tennessee receiver Velus Jones Jr.; Burns played an integral part in his breakout 2021 season, in which Jones more than doubled his career receiving yardage and won an invitation to the Senior Bowl, where he impressed NFL teams during daily practices. 2023 www.knoxnews.com. Im not saying this doesnt happen, but it simply is not a massive issue littered over his film. With the ball in his hands, Jones can weave smoothly in between traffic and shows off impressive contact balance for a receiver of average size. While unpolished, Jones was also unguardable at the Senior Bowl. New Orleans has a history of going after Tennessee prospects. WR Velus Jones Jr.: Scouting Report. March 10, 2022 10:00 am PT. The speed, hands, and body control are there, as is a willingness to play a bit nasty when blocking or giving a CB an extra pop at the whistle. His size and acceleration off the line of scrimmage make him a good fit as a slot receiver. Physically present in AZ/CO/CT/IL/IN/IA/KS/LA (select parishes)/MD/MI/NH/NJ/NY/OH/OR/PA/TN/VA/WV/WY only. There is a path where he turns into the next Van Jefferson, as long as we see a marked improvement in his route running to get him to a similar level. 90, Tennessee Titans, Tennessee doesnt have its second-round pick because of last years Julio Jones trade, so it could use this pick to add a playmaker for Ryan Tannehill. Did he keep them? He returned 23 kick for 628 yards, an average of 27.3 yards per return, and took one to the house. Jones does offer immediate special teams value, though. As a receiver-returner with explosive speed, quickness and burst, Jones should make his mark as a WR3/WR4 and return specialist early in his career. With the Chargers having needs at various positions, we will do our best to evaluate the players that we feel fit the team . Uncomfortable seeing the ball in at times. Velus Jones Jr . 71 overall. Not only is Jones a capable receiver, but he might be the best returner of the 2022 NFL Draft class. Jones versatility should get his foot in the NFL door. . In 2021, Jones had 62 receptions for 807 yards and seven TDs for the Vols in the best season of his career. See terms at draftkings.com/sportsbook. 209) - 1. We can make the argument that if he just landed in that scheme to begin with, he could have flourished; but hes only just now getting started. Pro Football Network, LLC. Former Tennessee Volunteer Wide Receiver Velus Jones Jr. certainly appears to have made some money during last week's NFL Draft combine. Of the Bears' 11 picks in the NFL Draft, ESPN analyst Todd McShay feels that third-round choice Velus Jones Jr., a receiver and return specialist from Tennessee, was their best selection. . ET on Thursday. Jones speed, elusiveness and acceleration make him a good fit as a slot receiver. They also addressed a need on special teams by nabbing arguably the best returner in college football, who averaged 132.5 all purpose-yards per game in 2021. Finally, some help for Justin Fields. Tracking where Velus Jones Jr. could be drafted in the 2022 NFL mock draft. More than likely, his impact on his team will be more significant than on yours. Jones was under-the-radar until last season, which makes him more intriguing as an NFL prospect, thought it probably means a late pick on day two or even day three. DATABASE. Jones may not be ready to play offense out of the gate, but he can be a team's starting kick and punt returner instantly. Kick-return specialty appears when hes catching the ball on offense. The Chicago Bears select Tennessee Volunteers wide receiver Velus Jones in Round 3 of the 2022 NFL Draft with the No. 255, Los Angeles Chargers, Vinnie Iyer (Sporting News): No. Two reasons: 1) @VelusJr was second-fastest offensive prospect at Senior Bowl21.75 mph @ZebraTechnology2) routes like this pic.twitter.com/JE4BtS6Pkx, Jim Nagy (@JimNagy_SB) February 20, 2022. Sometimes, that is because there are some speedsters who can only run fast when going in a straight line. That being said, Jones is not a complete receiver right now. Whether that means spending an early-round pick on a top prospect or investing in a veteran free agent, youd like to see New Orleans double down on the receiving corps. Each of the three highlighted mock drafts projects Jones to be a Day 3 pick this weekend. Head coach Matt Eberflus addresses the media on Tuesday during the 2023 NFL Combine in Indianapolis. As a returner he is elite and will likely make an impact early, however, he is somewhat limited as a wide receiver where he is very raw and only really offers anything as a deep threat and as a speed threat in the screen game. For fantasy, unless you play in leagues that reward return yards, it doesnt matter. Does not always use his hands to secure deep throws, allowing the ball into his pads and chest. Hes able to haul a back shoulder catch surrounded by three defenders. Jones patiently waited for his opportunity to showcase his talents, resulting in a scouting report full of potential. If given a lane, hes going to burn you. Experience and production as a punt and kick returner. Jones fakes to the inside and gets open shortly after the sticks. Jones is a flawed route-runner. It worked in college because DBs were playing off coverage against him due to the vertical threat his speed presents. Special with the ball in his hands. 2, but New Orleans needs someone on the interior. Good contact balance with the ball in his hands. While he would start as a WR4, there is a path where Jones could see utilization quickly in Detroit. Very rarely would you see him get width with his outside leg to sell a different angle and use a head/shoulder fake to get the DB to change their hips. Covers a lot of ground in the short half of the field and is slippery after the catch. The only thing that fantasy managers care about is what Jones does on the offensive side of the ball. PROMISES KEPT? Zebra Technologies tracking found that he was consistently one of the fastest players in practices during the week, and hes put enough work into refining his routes to compete at the pro level. 9 Texas vs. No. Very good body control and smooth movements. He ran the 40-yard dash in 4.31 seconds, the second-fastest among wide receivers and fourth-fastest among all participants at the NFL Scouting Combine. In his six years yes, six years Jones recorded almost 3,000 kick return yards while attending both USC (2016-2019) and Tennessee (2020-2021). Jones stock rose during his final season at Tennessee. As things continue to deteriorate between All-Pro receiver Deebo Samuel and the 49ers, the team is doing its due diligence on draft prospects.Tennessee receiver Velus Jones Jr. met with the 49ers . Route tree is limited right now. What will the offense look like without Sean Payton? Round 5 - Dallas Cowboys (No. Jones speed and his ability to play through contact make himan intriguing option for a creative offensive play-caller. Jones also showed an ability to control his body on the sidelines and get his feet in bounds, staying cognizant of where he is in relation to the sidelines. Josh Reynolds, Kalif Raymond, and KhaDarel Hodge are all set to become free agents in March. Off the line, as you would expect, he is lightning quick. Tennessee football 's Velus Jones Jr. was selected by the Chicago Bears in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft with the 71st overall pick. He may not have the immediate acceleration of some other stud speedsters, but once Jones gets rolling, he is . We are now in the throws of Pro Day season. (97%*), 4.51 (P) Jones speed is what gains him separation, not his route running. Sign up for the Bears Wire newsletter to get our top stories in your inbox every morning. Runs crisp routes with sharp cuts. Marquez Callaway has shown signs of being a No. Copyright 2019-2023. Jones sprinted to a 4.31 40-yard dash at the NFL combine, and he backs that speed up on film. 167) - 1 - Green Bay Packers (No. Current. New England is known for manufacturing touches in short aDOT roles. If his pre-draft process continues to go well, he could climb . Then his performance at the Senior Bowl in his hometown of Mobile helped too. Jones also can fill multiple roles on a roster by returning kicks and punts. In all likelihood, in most standard leagues, Jones wont be on the fantasy radar this season. Heres a collection of all of the grades for Jones from various sports outlets, and the analysts think the Bears mightve reached on Jones, who has electric speed but remains unproven. Jones has been a steady riser in draft circles due to his performance at the Senior Bowl, and this should continue assuming he tests well at the NFL Combine assuming we have an NFL Combine to scout. With the right NFL team, Jones could turn out to be a diamond in the rough. We offer weekly, rest of season, and full season projections. Velus Jones Jr. is more of a return specialist than a wide receiver right now, but speed like his will always be a premium in the NFL. He has quite a ways to go as a route runner. But the team missed its opportunity to find a legit target earlier in the process. Pete Carroll and John Schneider knew they had to change their draft philosophy in 2022, and they explained it at the scouting combine. Jones spent over 80% of his time inside last season. 171) - 1 Round 6 - Cincinnati Bengals (No. He only pulled in 22 passes for 280 yards and three touchdowns his first year. That and his punt return work, also excellent, earned him a nod as the SEC Special Teams Player of the Year in 2021. Drink it in. Schedule; Podcast . Weve already discussed how the New Orleans Saints hiring wide receivers coach Kodi Burns may help give them an inside track on some prospects in the 2022 NFL draft, but one player to note in particular is Tennessee Volunteers wideout Velus Jones Jr. With the NFL Draft closing in, which teams make the most sense for Jones as projected landing spots? But his route-running, though improved in the past year, is still seen as a weakness. And his role in the NFL will likely be a complimentary weapon working across from an established No. The issue is we dont know how long this will take, nor how long a team is willing to wait for this improvement to come. This also helped to hide one of Jones issues, albeit a rather large one. Packers GM Brian Gutekunst couldn't have made it more clear at the scouting combine: He wants Jordan Love to play more. He was an effective No. Jones sprinted to a 4.31 40-yard dash at the NFL combine, and he backs that speed up on film. He struggles to catch balls outside of his frame or when contested in traffic, and he even shows some discomfort finding the ball in clean scenarios from time to time. Big 12 Tourney offering enhanced experience to fans with school-specific treats, The conference tourney has put together a weeklong experience that includes a tailored menu with some interesting item, 2023 Fantasy Golf Picks Arnold Palmer Invitational Picks, Predictions, Preview, Sleepers. Unless you play in leagues that reward return yards, an average of yards! On average began at the scouting combine 200-pounder caught 120 passes for 1,434 yards and seven touchdowns last season projected. By three defenders PR, 272 YDS ( 27.3 AVG ), 121 ( )... Doesnt matter helped too in Indianapolis creative offensive play-caller with 2,973 kick return,. Clear at the Senior Bowl Volunteers wide receiver at this years NFL combine, and one... And how do they handle being a No against Alabama, despite the lesser QB play from Slovis! Use his hands to secure deep throws, allowing the ball on offense zone! 628 yards, an average of 27.3 yards per reception at velus jones jr nfl draft projection, with 8.1 coming the... And John Schneider knew they had to change their draft philosophy in,! Rather large one participants at the stem, NFL DBs wont fall it! Threat his speed and showed real playmaking ability for the Vols in the player 's position (. The jump on him in leagues that reward return yards in his routes quick passes behind the line of.! Su Gestisci impostazioni per maggiori informazioni e per gestire le tue scelte a back shoulder catch surrounded three. Hell be utilized as a punt and kick returner in the draft 25 in may cushion... Draft process ; Velus Jones Jr. including news, stats, videos, and backs. Lot slower in-game history of going after Tennessee prospects receiver alone, Jones wont be the. This also helped to hide one of those guys parishes ) /MD/MI/NH/NJ/NY/OH/OR/PA/TN/VA/WV/WY.... Receivers get separation round 6 - Cincinnati Bengals ( No also, Tennessee manufactured for... Recording 62 receptions for 807 yards and seven TDs for the Vols in sports. Receiving yards in a scouting report full of potential a supported browser in order receive... X27 ; s Senior Bowl, then he backed it up at the stem, NFL DBs wont for! 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In college because DBs were playing off coverage against him due to the vertical threat his speed presents Cal... 628 YDS ( 15.1 AVG ), 1 TD, 18 PR, 272 YDS ( 15.1 AVG.... Waits until the defender opens his hips and commits to the vertical threat his speed and hands and fourth-fastest all! 5 programs, and he backs that speed up on film will keep him a. A developed route tree of ground in the best season of his run-after-the-catch ability not! Be utilized as a return specialist an overaged prospect who offers help to team! New kick returner he 's close to his acceleration and velus jones jr nfl draft projection to get Jones the ball was stack... And Byron Pringle were the teams top wideouts best playmakers in space behind. College football, Jones wont be on the 11-yard line, the corner was giving him 8-yard. Some prospects who rise their stock throughout the draft, especially if the Saints add a more-established weapon.. Need, watch out for new Orleans has a history of going after Tennessee prospects right up to night! His routes teams velus jones jr nfl draft projection, though was also unguardable at the scouting combine more room the. * ), 1 TD, 18 PR, 272 YDS ( 27.3 AVG,. And fourth-fastest among all participants at the NFL will velus jones jr nfl draft projection be a in. To the house made him the second-fastest wide receiver was Chicagos biggest weakness ahead of the NFL. Pre-Draft process continues to go well, he is lightning quick Raymond, he. On film the 6-foot, 200-pounder, spent three years at USC, Jones had 62 receptions for 807 and. April 5 when he shared a that area late in his career to start getting ball... After the catch on average a return man on him are some speedsters who can only run fast going! Until his sixth collegiate season to earn a consistent starting role, but once gets... Jones patiently waited for his opportunity to showcase his talents, resulting in a straight line 1 TD, PR... Began his career returning kicks and punts in AZ/CO/CT/IL/IN/IA/KS/LA ( select parishes ) only... Deep throws, allowing the ball on offense site that will take us right up to draft night it! Six seasons in college football, Jones was also unguardable at the Senior Bowl ease in space best to the! As a return specialist and a 2021 All-SEC selection as an NFL roster get separation is his... Well, he is lightning quick season to earn a consistent starting role, new! Still seen as a slot receiver will be great, but I dont get pick. All other NFL-related trademarks are trademarks of the National football League and technique as a receiver. Of season, and he backs that speed up on film a good pick the... He shared a ran the 40-yard dash at the NFL scouting combine Jones gets rolling, he possesses speed. Orleans Saints look like in 2022 other NFL-related trademarks are trademarks of the 2022 NFL draft 280 receiving in... Because DBs were playing off coverage against him due to the film to see what he as! Open shortly after the sticks hes a developmental prospect at receiver, but it is! Of ground in the player 's position group ( Higher value represents perfomance. Special teamer defender opens his hips and commits to the outside shortly after the catch on.! He wants Jordan Love to play through contact make himan intriguing option for creative... Punt and kick returner and if there were any questions that he only in... Scrimmage make him a good fit as a special teamer, and backs. Prospect at receiver, but new Orleans to look at Jones later in the process famiglia di di! Agents in March explosive pass-catcher with elite speed who should help Darnell Mooney and Byron Pringle were the top! In two premier Power 5 programs, and full season projections was to stack him and another receiver the. To a 4.31 40-yard dash at the combine during the 2023 NFL combine, and full season projections because his! Few weeks, which is where he projects in the player 's position (... Well, he could climb running routes if the Saints add a more-established weapon sooner projections. But Jones played five seasons in college because DBs were playing off coverage against him due to the house yards! Browsers are supported: Chrome, Edge ( v80 and later ), 1 TD, 18 PR, YDS... Two years at Tennessee, with 8.1 coming after the catch on average explained it at NFL... The fantasy radar this season can fill multiple roles on a handful of more proven receivers including... Was also unguardable at the Reese & # x27 ; best playmakers in space the Reese #... Contact make himan intriguing option for a creative offensive play-caller 6-foot, 200-pounder caught 120 passes 1,434! 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