The Chicago Bears need to rethink Velus Jones

How can the Bears get Velus Jones more involved?

When Jones can get the ball in his hands, he is nothing short of electric. Unfortunately, getting the ball in his hands has proven to be more of a challenge than many had hoped. This is why he has registered six offensive touches in five games. While the Bears have made an effort to get Jones the ball in different ways, jet sweeps and push passes cannot be the foundation of a productive player’s game.

Jones is at his best when he’s in space. He has more than enough speed to outrun defenders and has the change-of-direction ability to force missed tackles. Getting a player in space can be done in ways that don’t include screens and jet sweeps. Those plays work for this too, but they aren’t the most sustainable approaches.

Chicago Bears can use clear-out concepts to create space

One way this could be done is by designing plays that involve go or fade routes that can act as clear-outs. For example, if Jones is lined up in the slot and Darnell Mooney is on the outside, the Bears can send Mooney on some type of vertical route that will take his defender and possibly a deep safety with him. Jones could then run a flat route, commonly referred to as a speed out, to that side of field. This, in essence, works as a screen but doesn’t require the same level of timing or blocking. This is the type of play the Bears could dial up to beat man coverage, as Jones would only need to break one tackle to reach the open field. Additionally, this isn’t a concept that requires Jones to be the primary read. Even as a check-down or safety valve option, the ultimate goal of getting him in space is achieved.

Since it’s been established that Jones isn’t a true wide receiver, the Bears’ offense should make it a priority to ask him to do as few wide receiver things is possible. Short developing routes in uncongested areas of the field accomplish that while still giving Jones a chance to showcase his signature skill as a runner.