The Chicago Bears are optimistic about Velus Jones Jr.’s transition from wide receiver to running back during the 2024 training camp. This confidence led general manager Ryan Poles to set a steep trade price when another team inquired about Jones ahead of the August 27 roster cuts.
The final episode of HBO’s “Hard Knocks: Training Camp with the Chicago Bears,” which aired on September 3, showcased a behind-the-scenes discussion between Poles and head coach Matt Eberflus about the trade interest in Jones. Although the episode didn’t reveal which team expressed interest or if an actual offer was made, it was clear that Poles was demanding substantial compensation.
Poles indicated he wouldn’t consider any offer less than a fourth-round pick, emphasizing the high value he places on Jones. He explained, “I’m drawing the line on what I would accept. I would never go below a four [fourth-round pick]. The value, does it make sense on paper? That’s unbelievable value. Does it make sense for the Bears right now? No.”
This valuation reflects how much Jones has increased his worth over the past month. The Bears shifted Jones—who was a third-round pick in 2022—to running back at the start of August, hoping it would give him one last chance to secure a roster spot. Although he had been primarily a kick returner with limited impact as a wide receiver, the switch to running back has been promising. During the preseason, Jones impressed with 25 carries for 158 yards and two touchdowns, demonstrating strong skills as a ball carrier.
Running backs coach Chad Morton praised Jones for his smooth transition and positive attitude, while Poles, who drafted Jones in 2022, expressed optimism about his renewed role on offense. Poles mentioned, “Chad invested in him, [he] looks really good and now we can see. It provides an extra runway to prove he can play in this league at running back, and you’re going to be active and help us win games on special teams.”
Heading into 2024, the Bears plan to utilize Jones in the backfield, though the exact distribution of running back reps remains uncertain. D’Andre Swift is expected to be the primary back after his three-year, $24 million contract signed in March, with Khalil Herbert and Roschon Johnson also competing for carries. Travis Homer and fullback Khari Blasingame are also part of the roster.
The Bears ran the ball 534 times in 2023, averaging over 31 carries per game, with quarterbacks Justin Fields and Tyson Bagent accounting for 147 of those runs. This left about 22.7 carries per game for other offensive players, including running backs and receivers like Jones.
Even with an anticipated increase in carries for non-quarterbacks in 2024, Jones might only see 2 to 4 carries per game, with no guarantee of consistent involvement if Swift and others perform well. However, Jones will still contribute as a kick returner, where he has averaged 27.4 yards per return and should benefit from recent rule changes that promote dynamic returns. Additionally, Bears special teams coordinator Richard Hightower noted Jones’ progress as a gunner, enhancing his value on special teams. Only time will tell if Jones can justify the Bears’ trust and expectations.
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