Bears waive Velus Jones Jr. and release Khari Blasingame

Jones was a 2022 third-round pick, the first offensive player selected by general manager Ryan Poles. The fast receiver couldn't find a solid place in the offense and had problems as a return specialist, both on punts and kickoffs. In his first two seasons, Jones totaled 11 receptions for 127 yards and one touchdown.

The Bears attempted to convert Jones to running back in training camp to extend his tenure. Jones played in just one game this season, fending off a kick return and only saw a few snaps at running back in Week 1. He has been a healthy scratch in every game since and will now look for a new home.

Blasingame, meanwhile, signed as a free agent in 2022 and was extended the following offseason. He was an effective fullback in Luke Getsy's offense for two seasons. This year, that wasn’t the case under Shane Waldron. He was inactive in all but two games, participating primarily on special teams when he saw the field.