The Chicago Bears went defensive back with each of their first two picks in the 2022 draft. This drove fans into a near psychosis that they weren’t giving Justin Fields more help on offense. Finally, in the 3rd round at pick #71 they answered those prayers. GM Ryan Poles also delivered his first surprise of the weekend by taking Tennessee wide receiver Velus Jones, somebody that was a late riser during the draft process.
Jones never got opportunities at USC, so he transferred to Tennessee and finally blossomed in 2021. He’ll also be 25-years old this year, which explains why he fell. The talent, though, is undeniable. He’s 6’0 and wicked fast. Not only a deep threat on offense but also a legitimate weapon in the return game. He is somebody the Bears will be able to get creative with in all sorts of ways. His route running is also noticeably improved, which only helps his projection.
Breaking: #Bears selecting WR Velus Jones with the 71st pick, per source.
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) April 30, 2022
NFL scouts have been in draft meetings past couple weeks and hearing @Vol_Football WR Velus Jones Jr. is getting pushed up many boards.
Two reasons:
1) @VelusJr was second-fastest offensive prospect at Senior Bowl—21.75 mph @ZebraTechnology
2) routes like this 👇 pic.twitter.com/JE4BtS6Pkx— Jim Nagy (@JimNagy_SB) February 20, 2022
Subscribe to the BFR Youtube channel and ride shotgun with Dave and Ficky as they break down Bears football like nobody else.
If there is a Deebo Samuel in this draft class its probably Velus Jones. Built like a RB and looks like one when he gets the ball in his hands. Ran a 4.31 at the combine. Biggest issue is his age. Will be 25 in a few weeks. #bears pic.twitter.com/9kRKQ8s6NS
— Chicago Football Connection (@CFCBears) April 30, 2022
Jones is a ready-made option in the return game.
He had almost 3,000 kick return yards in his college career including two touchdowns. He’ll be an instant benefit on special teams. If he can continue to progress as a receiver too, then the Bears did really well with this pick. It’s unfortunate they weren’t able to secure a wide receiver earlier in the draft, but the board seemed to empty of the best options before they picked. Thus Poles avoided drafting a need.
Finally in the 3rd round, where there was less risk, he opted to go with somebody he felt could contribute to the team in multiple ways. Jones is already a grown man, so he should be able to play immediately. That is something this offense needs with so few proven options at wide receiver. He might not be the guy people wanted, but he has ability worth getting excited about.
