Former Tennessee Vols standout makes huge statement in final NFL preseason game before regular season starts

Former Tennessee Vols wide receiver Velus Jones Jr made quite a statement on Thursday night in the Chicago Bears' 34-21 win against the Kansas City Chiefs.

Jones, a third round pick by the Bears in the 2022 NFL Draft, has been on the roster bubble this summer after a challenging start to his pro career (ball security has been an issue at times for the former Vol). But after his performance against the Chiefs, Jones' roster spot in Chicago appears to be secure.

The former Vol, who has been transitioning to running back this summer, carried the ball 13 times for 111 yards and a touchdown on Thursday night. Jones also caught two passes for 11 yards.

Jones is a dynamic returner who has elite speed. He struggled at wide receiver during his first two seasons in Chicago (Jones had just 17 receptions for 154 yards over his first two seasons), but it looks like the Bears have found a way to utilize his skills.

With Jones flashing at running back, it seems likely that he'll make Chicago's 53-man roster.

We'll see how year three goes for Jones, but his game against the Chiefs is a reminder that players shouldn't be totally written off if they don't excel the second they reach the NFL.

Related: Jets CB Sauce Gardner makes strong statement about Giants WR Jalin Hyatt after talking major trash to former Vol last year