Chicago Bears wide receiver Velus Jones Jr. David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

Position change could be what Bears speedster needs

By Andrew Prouse | Last updated Aug 6, 2024 4:45 PM ET

The Bears overhauled their receiving corps in the offseason, adding veteran Keenan Allen and first-round draft pick Rome Odunze to a group that already includes star D.J. Moore.

The moves positively reformed Chicago's expectations for the passing game under Caleb Williams, the No. 1 overall pick and starting quarterback.

It also changed the outlook for little-used Bears receiver Velus Jones Jr., a project coming off a poor 2023 season (four catches, 20 yards).

On Tuesday, Bears Insider's Sean Hammond reported that Jones Jr. is taking reps as a running back.

Bears have used Velus Jones Jr. out of the backfield numerous times throughout training camp, but today he was warming up with the running backs during individual drills.
— Sean Hammond (@sean_hammond) August 6, 2024

Jones Jr. has a slim chance of earning playing time in Chicago's new-look passing game, so moving to running back would allow the Bears to use his elite speed on the ground. He rushed eight times for 51 yards last season, a 6.4-yard average.

In late July, the Chicago Sun-Times reported a competition is underway for Nos. 2 and 3 running backs behind D'Andre Swift. If Jones Jr. switches to running back, he faces stiff competition against Khalil Herbert and Roschon Johnson.

Another option for Jones Jr. is as a kickoff return specialist. His speed, power and elusiveness could aid the Bears, especially under the NFL's new kickoff rules.

Whether as a running back or return specialist, Jones Jr. is running low on options. His remaining time with the Bears could be short if he doesn't perform well at those spots.

Andrew Prouse

Andrew Prouse is a journalist and fervent sports fan from Washington state. He has a deep interest in Seattle and Chicago-area teams. He holds a professional & creative writing degree from Central Washington University. Andrew primarily covers the NFL, NBA, NHL, Golf, and some collegiate sports. He has written for ChiCitySports.com.

More must-reads: