San Francisco 49ers: Brandon Jones Must Prove Himself in Training Camp

In 2009, the San Francisco 49ers signed Brandon Jones to a five-year, $16.5 million contract via free agency. At the time, the deal seamed justifiable since he had registered 41 receptions for 449 yards with the Tennessee Titans the previous year.

When asked what he brought to the 49ers, he replied “I bring a deep threat. I bring a possession guy. I want to go out there, work as hard as I can and give it all I got.”

Apparently, all he had last season was enough to record one reception for eighteen yards. Of course, Jones did suffer a small fracture in his right shoulder which sidelined him for eight weeks. However, even when he was on the field, he didn’t show any promise of developing into a consistent threat.

To make matters even worse, as both Vernon Davis and Michael Crabtree emerged as big-time playmakers, Jones quickly fell down the depth chart. The former third rounder is currently the fifth wide receiver behind Crabtree, Morgan, Ginn Jr., and Hill.

Moreover, in what the coaching staff is envisioning as a smash mouth, run-heavy offense, there may no longer be a need for his services. The unit’s typical lineup will only consist of two or three wideouts, reducing his playing time even further.  

Now, heading into training camp, he will have to prove that he is still worthy of the $13.2 million left on his deal.

In my opinion, he will have to firmly establish himself as a reliable weapon and make a jump up to the No. 3 spot.

Failing to do so should, and most likely will, result in his release. Which at this point in the offseason limits his opportunities to find another home.

If that indeed ends up being the case, however, I wish him the best of luck moving forward with the remainder of his career.