Velus Jones Jr. may be at risk of losing his role in Week 2 after the Chicago Bears receiver fumbled a kickoff return against the Tennessee Titans, setting up an easy field goal for the Titans. Jones admitted to Brad Biggs of the *Chicago Tribune* that he became complacent during the return:
“I just took my eyes off the ball,” Jones said. “I’ve caught that ball a million times. Sometimes you can get lackadaisical. I didn’t realize I kicked it when I looked for it. It’s never happened to me before, but it’s about focusing on the small details. I need to get back to basics.”
Special teams coordinator Richard Hightower had previously supported keeping Jones on the 53-man roster, praising his athletic talent. However, in a recent press conference, Hightower referred to Jones’ mistake as “unacceptable” and mentioned that the team is considering a change at kickoff return:
“I feel for the kid as a person, but as a coach, we have to consider all options. The top priority in the return game is protecting the football.”
Hightower also responded to Jones’ “lackadaisical” comment by emphasizing the Bears’ focus on ball security:
“[The Bears] value the football, and in that play, we didn’t, which hurt the team.”
After the fumble, the Bears replaced Jones with DeAndre Carter, who returned a kickoff for 66 yards. Hightower indicated that he would be comfortable with Carter continuing kickoff return duties against the Houston Texans on Sunday. Rookie Tyler Scott, who was a preseason returner but sat out Week 1, could also see opportunities with Carter, especially after Rome Odunze’s injury.
Against the Titans, running back Khalil Herbert and Carter were used for kickoff returns after Jones was removed from the role. The team may continue with Carter and Scott for the Texans game.
