Quick Read
- Velus Jones Jr. was elevated from the Seattle Seahawks’ practice squad for the NFC Divisional Round.
- He contributed to the Seahawks’ 41-6 rout of the San Francisco 49ers.
- Jones saw increased action after starting running back Zach Charbonnet sustained a knee injury.
- Jones recorded 10 rushing yards on six carries during the game.
- Jones was a third-round pick by the Chicago Bears in 2022 and has played in 37 career NFL games.
The Seattle Seahawks made a strategic move ahead of their NFC Divisional Round playoff clash against the San Francisco 49ers, elevating running back Velus Jones Jr. from their practice squad to the active roster. This decision proved timely as Jones contributed to the Seahawks’ dominant 41-6 victory, stepping into a more prominent role after starting running back Zach Charbonnet sustained a knee injury during the game, highlighting the critical importance of depth in postseason play.
Jones Jr.’s Elevation and Timely Contribution
Velus Jones Jr.’s promotion was announced just prior to the high-stakes playoff game, a move designed to bolster the Seahawks’ running back depth. This became particularly crucial when Zach Charbonnet, who forms a formidable one-two punch with Kenneth Walker III, left the game in the second quarter with a knee injury. While head coach Mike Macdonald expressed optimism about Charbonnet’s condition post-game, stating, “Optimistic with Charbs. We’ve gotta get it imaged and stuff, but early indications are hopefully it’s OK structurally,” his absence necessitated immediate adjustments.
Jones stepped up, logging six carries for 10 yards, providing valuable relief and allowing the Seahawks to maintain their ground game momentum alongside a stellar performance by Kenneth Walker III, who rushed for 116 yards and three touchdowns. Jones’s involvement underscored the team’s “next man up” philosophy, a common mantra in the physically demanding NFL, especially during the playoffs where every player on the roster must be ready to contribute.
The elevation of Jones also came in the context of other injury concerns. Veteran left tackle Charles Cross, despite missing the final three regular-season games with a hamstring injury and hurting his knee in practice, started the game but exited in the third quarter with a foot injury. Coach Macdonald indicated this was largely precautionary due to the Seahawks’ substantial lead, noting, “Charles was really out of caution. We were in a position where we didn’t need him to come back. But still, we’re gonna have to work through it with his foot, so I don’t have an indication on what that’s gonna look like.” These simultaneous injuries highlighted the precarious nature of playoff health and the strategic necessity of having versatile, ready-to-play backups like Jones.
A Look at Velus Jones Jr.’s Journey to Seattle
Velus Jones Jr.’s path to this playoff moment with the Seahawks has been dynamic. Originally a third-round pick by the Chicago Bears in the 2022 NFL Draft, Jones has demonstrated versatility throughout his career. While primarily drafted as a wide receiver, he has also excelled as a kick returner, showcasing a multifaceted skill set that includes speed and agility. Before joining the Seahawks earlier this season, he had stints with the Bears and the New Orleans Saints.
Across 37 career games, including two starts, Jones has accumulated 24 rushing attempts for 197 yards and 12 receptions for 135 yards. With the Seahawks specifically, he had previously appeared in three regular-season games, rushing four times for 32 yards. His experience, particularly in special teams and as a rotational offensive player, makes him a valuable asset for a team navigating the rigors of the postseason. His presence provides a reliable alternative in the backfield, especially with George Holani currently on injured reserve, further emphasizing the depth concerns that prompted his elevation.
His role in the divisional game, though modest in statistics, was significant in context. The ability to spell Kenneth Walker III and absorb carries, even for short gains, helps keep the primary back fresh and mitigates the impact of Charbonnet’s sudden departure. This tactical flexibility is paramount in playoff football, where every yard and every snap can influence the game’s outcome.
Seahawks’ Strategic Depth and Playoff Aspirations
The Seahawks’ decisive victory over the 49ers, propelling them to the NFC Championship game, was a testament to their “all-three-phases” formula and the effectiveness of their roster management. The ability to elevate players like Velus Jones Jr. and integrate them seamlessly into the game plan speaks volumes about the team’s coaching and player development.
With Charbonnet’s status pending further evaluation, Jones’s role could become even more critical in the upcoming NFC title game. The uncertainty surrounding key injuries, including Cross’s foot and Charbonnet’s knee, will undoubtedly influence the Seahawks’ preparations. The team’s reliance on its depth chart, which now includes Jones as the third running back, will be a central theme as they advance deeper into the playoffs. The performance against the 49ers showcased that even without their full complement of players, the Seahawks possess the talent and strategic depth to overcome significant challenges.
The strategic elevation of Velus Jones Jr. and his subsequent contribution in the NFC Divisional Round game against the 49ers underscores the inherent value of a robust practice squad system in the NFL, demonstrating how prepared depth can mitigate critical in-game injuries and sustain a team’s championship aspirations.