Often, a key for teams like the Chicago Bears to achieve better things from one season to the next is having certain players achieve more than expected. Maybe they’re a free agent who washed out with one team but finds new life with you. Or maybe they’re a draft pick that had a strong rookie year but fell off as a sophomore, then rediscovered their potential. Players who produce a “rebound” or “comeback” season can often be a driving force to success. Last year, that honor went to cornerback Jaylon Johnson.
His 2022 was miserable. Not only did he fail to record a single interception, but he missed six games with injuries. Last season, he delivered four interceptions, played most of the season healthy, and was one of the best corners in football. If the Bears want to achieve more beyond their 7-10 record last year, they will need somebody to step up. Preferably a player who should’ve been a big contributor but wasn’t. Some will pick Kyler Gordon for that honor. He missed four games and finished with worse stats than his rookie year.
Maybe they choose Khalil Herbert, who averaged a full yard per carry less and struggled to hold onto the football. However, if there is one name well-positioned for a rebound in 2024, it is Velus Jones.
His prowess as a wide receiver never quite matured as the team hoped. Still, one major benefit he brought them was his excellent prowess as a kick returner. Sadly, the NFL’s constant rule changes led to a point where teams just stopped returning altogether. They opted for touchbacks more than ever before. Jones only had 16 returns last season despite averaging more than 27 yards per touch. Mercifully, the league reversed course this off-season. They’ve embraced a new variation of the XFL kickoff rule that should encourage more returns.
Jones is perfectly suited for these changes. He runs the ball like a running back, which is exactly what the new return format will support. It will be less about speed and more about vision and the ability to break tackles. Jones can do both. The Chicago Bears sound excited about the prospect of getting him more opportunities. If he can get into the 25-30 range for returns, there is no question he should have a substantial impact on games for the Bears. Field position is a crucial thing in this league. Few affect it more than good returners.
