On Sunday it was confirmed that wide receiver James Jones will return to the Green Bay Packers. The exact details of the deal are still to be announced, but it is expected to be a one-year contract.
Jones, 31, has never been a superstar receiver and is on the opposite end of his prime. Even so, he is a valuable addition to the Packers roster after the devastating season-ending injury to Jordy Nelson.
Outside of Randall Cobb and Andrew Quarless, the Packers’ receivers have minimal experience with Aaron Rodgers. The corps of Davante Adams, Richard Rodgers, Ty Montgomery, and Jeff Janis are second-year players or rookies. Conversely, James Jones has six seasons of experience catching passes from Aaron Rodgers. With Nelson out it was important for the Packers to add a receiver who has Rodgers’ trust.
Jones also loved playing in Green Bay and was eager to return. He wanted to stay in Green Bay after the 2013 season, but understandably departed for Oakland when the Raiders offered him a better contract. Jones further expressed his affinity for Green Bay by declaring “I’ll be rooting for the Pack” on the NFL Network prior to the NFC Title game.
Jones is a seasoned receiver who will undoubtedly be a positive clubhouse presence. It’s also easy to imagine how he’ll be influential force in helping the young receiving corps get acclimated to Green Bay’s offense. Exactly how much of an impact he’ll have on the gridiron is to be seen, but it’s safe to say Packers are better team with James Jones back in town.