Bears Add to Depth and Sign Jones

The Chicago Bears hedged their bets yesterday by adding running back Kevin Jones to their roster. Jones was released from the Detroit Lions last season after having surgery on his ACL. He was set to make $2.35 million this year with the Lions, but the Bears took him for a mere $605,000 for one season. He was picked 30th in the 2004 draft by the Lions, and the Bears had looked at him that year as well. His first year for the Lions he had 1,133 yards, but he has had some injuries since then, limiting his gains.

When Jones was released, he made it quite clear that he wanted to be a Bear and was also looked at by other teams. It looked like the Bears did not want to add another running back but changed their mind with Jones. He seems to buy into the Bears’ philosophy of working hard without talking much smack talk and told the Chicago Tribune, “My main thing for him was would the opportunities for competition be fair and if he wanted me here,” Jones said. And coach Smith said, ‘Yes, we want you here. And you have a fair opportunity.’ That’s what stuck out to me: He seemed like a stand-up guy. He has strong Christian values. It just seems like the perfect situation. I felt comfortable after talking to him that it would be the right decision for me and my family to join the Chicago Bears.”

For as much of a bargain as he was, Jones seems like the perfect addition to the offense. See him compete this season by getting your Chicago Bears tickets from StubHub.com.

Permalink - Posted in General on July 16, 2008 - Post a comment