By Ross Jackson
NEW ORLEANS – After each free agency signing or extension becomes official, the New Orleans Saints send out a press release announcing the transaction to local media. One of the Saints’ most recent signings, the versatile Velus Jones Jr., has played both running back and wide receiver in the league, while tripling as a return specialist.
The question after the signing that remained until Monday afternoon was how the Saints would designate him on their roster. When New Orleans put out its most recent press releases, the answer became clear.
The Saints are viewing Jones as a running back, though he was drafted as a wide receiver.
The #Saints have announced the signings of both DT Jonah Williams and RB Velus Jones Jr.
Jones was drafted as a WR, but the Saints’ press release lists him as a running back.
— Ross Jackson (@RossJacksonNOLA) March 17, 2025
New Orleans won’t be the first team to go down this path with the talented and versatile player. The Chicago Bears utilized him as a running back, as well. Jones, in fact, has more career carries and rushing yards than he has receptions and receiving yards in the pros. He currently totals 20 rushes for 165 rushing yards and 12 receptions for 135 receiving yards. He also has a touchdown in each phase.
New Orleans lists the 2022 third-round selection as a running back, adding him to a room that includes star player Alvin Kamara, veteran rusher Clyde Edwards-Helaire, and young rushers Kendre Miller, Jordan Mims and Xazavian Valladay.
Given his Chicago Bears ties, anticipating the 6 foot, 204 pound Jones to perhaps be a Cordarrelle Patterson type in the league is an easy connection to draw. With four career fumbles and a combined three muffed returns in kick and punt fielding, ball security will have to be an emphasis for the player. But if he can solidify that area and maintain the 4.31 speed that he entered the league boasting, he could become an interesting addition should he make the cut.
