In search of an upgrade on special teams, the San Diego Chargers have signed former Ravens return specialist Jacoby Jones.
According to NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport, the pact is worth up to $5.5 million over two years.
On one hand, the price tag bodes well for receivers that are largely special teams-centric. Jones had just nine catches last year in Baltimore and, outside of a 51-catch campaign with the Texans in 2010, has been more of a kick return star than anything.
Ted Ginn will be happy.
Chargers general manager Tom Telesco tipped his hand on wanting some return game upgrades late last season when he was gushing over the Chiefs' De'Anthony Thomas.
He talked about the "hidden yards" in a football game and lamented the fact that his team didn't have a game-breaker back deep.
Cornerback Chris Davis had a long return of 35 yards, good enough for 48th in the league last year.
Jones' type, though appearing increasingly replaceable, are showing their worth through deals like this one. Like Ginn alongside him, NFL teams are still desperate for a spark on kickoffs despite all the touchbacks and are willing to pay a decent price.
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