Chargers News: Welcome back Jacoby Jones
The San Diego Chargers special teams and more specifically the return game was horrible last season. This off-season the team put a priority on signing a return man who would give the Chargers a threat returning kicks.
The Chargers signed long time Baltimore Ravens and Houston Texans return man Jacoby Jones to a deal and it looked to be a great addition for the team. Jones is a viable return man who easily adds creditability to the Chargers return game. Problem is he has been hurt since week one and hasn’t even sniffed the practice field until this week.
Jones looked to be ruled out for the Monday Night Football match-up against the Pittsburgh Steelers. A shame because Jones name puts fear into Steelers fans hearts. He has built a reputation against the Steelers and has had some fantastic games against his former division rival. However he made progress in his rehabilitation and was able to suit up for the Bolts against the Steelers.
Jacoby Jones brings in a career punt return average of 10.1 with four touchdowns. He has a career kick return average of 27.4 and five touch downs. Those are great numbers and the Chargers are patiently waiting for some return on their investment. Prior to Monday night games the Chargers had received one kick return for 24 yards from Jones. Not exactly what the Chargers were thinking when they inked Jones to a two-year, $5.5 million dollar deal prior to the season.
Chargers fans were up in arms wondering what is going on with Jones? Ankle injuries can be lingering but he hadn’t even addressed the media regarding his health. In fact when Extra Sports 1090 tried to interview him and mentioned the ankle, he high tailed it from in front of the camera like he was avoiding a tackle. Whats the mystery? Why can you not discuss it with the media and give Chargers fans an update?
He was desperately needed as the Chargers had zero yards returning punts until last week when Keenan Allen finally got some positive yards on a return. If the Chargers intend to compete this season they need to get more out of the special teams unit.
Jones finished Monday with one kick return for 30 yards and two punt returns for five yards. Not the best game for Jones, but having him out there helps the team stay more balanced. Welcome back Jacoby Jones, the Chargers have needed your services. Hopefully your return will help the Chargers start a winning streak in a very pivotal season for the San Diego Chargers.
I write, I write, and then I write some more.. Lifelong Padres & Chargers fan who is tired of the acceptance of losing that grips all of San Diego sports fans!