Bears WR Velus Jones Jr. explains why being an older rookie has its benefits

The Chicago Bears added another speedy weapon on offense in wide receiver Velus Jones Jr., who was drafted in the third round of the 2022 NFL draft.

Jones was the lone receiver drafted by first-year general manager Ryan Poles, but the Bears have a lot of confidence that he can develop into a true playmaker.

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There's been plenty of criticism surrounding the Jones selection, including the belief that Chicago reached for him early in the third round. But it also includes the fact that he's on the older side as a rookie.

Jones will be 25 years old when the 2022 season gets underway, which is the same age as some of the league's top wideouts in A.J. Brown and DK Metcalf.

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But rather than see his age as a detriment, Jones explained why it's actually beneficial.

"It is a benefit because I am coming in with maturity," Jones said during a recent press conference. "I'm all about my business. I was young, but now that I'm older, you know, I realize what's at stake. This is the best job in the world. Like I said before, they are getting a guy that's mature and don't care much about partying, that's coming in ready to establish a role on this team to help us win games.

"Definitely, my mind is screwed on right. They are definitely getting a mature guy that's all about his business and is going to help this team in any way possible."

Jones projects to serve as the Bears WR3 - at worst, WR4 - where offensive coordinator Luke Getsy will look to utilize his strengths to take advantage of opposing defenses. For quarterback Justin Fields, it gives him another young receiver to develop alongside.