Velus Jones Jr. is an American football wide receiver and return specialist currently playing for the New Orleans Saints. Born on May 11, 1997, in Mobile, Alabama, he stands 6 feet 0 inches tall and weighs 200 pounds.
Early Life and Education
Jones attended Saraland High School in Saraland, Alabama, where he earned first-team All-State honors as both a junior and senior. He began his collegiate career at the University of Southern California (USC), where he played from 2016 to 2019. In his senior year, he was named second-team All-Pac-12 as a kick returner.
He then transferred to the University of Tennessee, playing for the Volunteers in 2020 and 2021. In his final year, he led the Southeastern Conference (SEC) in kickoff return yards and was named SEC Co-Special Teams Player of the Year.
Professional Career
Jones was selected by the Chicago Bears in the third round (71st overall) of the 2022 NFL Draft. He signed a four-year contract with the team on May 17, 2022. During his rookie season, he appeared in 12 games, primarily contributing on special teams as the team’s lead kickoff returner. In 2023, he played in 14 games, maintaining his role in kickoff returns and seeing limited action in the offense.
However, in August 2024, the Bears transitioned Jones to a running back position. After a fumbled kickoff in the season opener, he was inactive for the next five games and was released on October 25, 2024.
Following his release, Jones joined the Jacksonville Jaguars’ practice squad on October 29, 2024. He was signed to the Carolina Panthers’ active roster on December 10, 2024. In March 2025, reports emerged that Jones was signing with the New Orleans Saints.
Personal Life
Jones is active on social media, sharing aspects of his personal and professional life with fans. He has a son named Tank Jones, who is featured on his Instagram account.