James Jones to Packers: Latest Contract Details, Comments and Reaction

One year away from quarterback Aaron Rodgers was apparently too much for wide receiver James Jones.

The New York Giants released Jones on Saturday, and the Green Bay Packers wasted little time bringing back the receiver they selected in the third round of the 2007 draft. Ian Rapoport of NFL.com reported the signing on Sunday.

The Packers confirmed the deal on Sept. 7.

Jones spent seven seasons in Green Bay, is a veteran who understands the system and is comfortable playing alongside Rodgers. He tallied 666 receiving yards and six touchdown catches with the Oakland Raiders last season and is not that far removed from a 14-touchdown season with the Packers in 2012.

He also appeared eager to get back to work in Green Bay when he visited before signing, per Rob Demovsky of ESPN. "I'm only one year removed. It seems like 10 years, but time will wait," he said. "Get with Aaron. I'm sure they probably have some new stuff. We'll see what happens, but let's make it happen first."

This is a critical addition for the Packers because superstar Jordy Nelson is out for the season with a torn ACL. Randall Cobb also dealt with injuries during the preseason, so Jones provides a security blanket for a position with depth concerns.

Evan Silva of Rotoworld commented on James’ status given the state of Green Bay’s wide receiver corps:

It is unfair to expect Jones to replicate what Nelson brought to the table as a deep threat and top-notch receiver in the league, but the Packers added a veteran presence to the locker room who put up big numbers in Packers green in the past.

They could do much worse a week before the regular season starts.