Steelers Free Agent Spotlight: RB Felix Jones
By Kim Myers
Aug 29, 2013; Charlotte, NC, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers Felix Jones (23) runs the ball during the third quarter against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. The Panthers defeated the Steelers 25-10. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Our next free agent running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers is Felix Jones. Jones was acquired via trade in Mid-August of 2013 with the Philadelphia Eagles and served as backup and situational running back as well as kick returner for the Steelers in 2013. Jones will become an unrestricted free agent on March 11th.
Felix Jones was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the 22nd pick of the 2008 NFL Draft. He was drafted ahead of other running backs like Rashard Mendenhall, Chris Johnson, Matt Forte, Ray Rice, and Jamaal Charles. The Cowboys had very high expectations for Jones and he showed signs of greatness but overall never really lived up to the first-round pedigree. In his six seasons in the NFL he’s accumulated 2,912 yards with a 4.7 yards-per-carry and 1,125 receiving yards. He also has over 1,500 return yards and one return touchdown. The Steelers traded for Jones before the start of the 2013 season.
Jones was signed primarily for injury insurance and I think he saw a lot more playing time than anyone expected. Each time I saw him in there to return a kick I thought to myself, “Really? We don’t have anyone else that can do this?” I’m not sure what direction the Steelers go here seeing as how they have three total free agent running backs. You certainly want a veteran presence on the team to help out the young starter in Bell but I don’t know if Jones is the way to go. He’d obviously come cheap so it might be something they consider.
What are your thoughts, Steeler Nation? Do you think the Steelers bring back Felix Jones?
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