The New York Jets announced today that they have acquired RB Thomas Jones and the 63rd selection in the 2007 NFL Draft from the Chicago Bears in exchange for the 37th selection in the 2007 NFL Draft. The Jets also announced they have signed Jones to a contract extension. The announcements were made by Jets' General Manager Mike Tannenbaum.
The 37th selection was originally acquired by the Jets from the Washington Redskins during the 2006 NFL Draft.
"Thomas Jones is an experienced running back who has a bright future in the NFL," Tannenbaum said. "I expect he will increase the versatility and productivity of our offense."
Jones, originally the seventh selection in the 2000 NFL Draft from Virginia, has gained 5,384 yards and 34 touchdowns in seven seasons with the Bears, Buccaneers and Cardinals.
"Thomas Jones is going to be able to contribute to the New York Jets, as a player and as a person," said Head Coach Eric Mangini. "He is an experienced running back who has been productive with his talents on the field and his intangibles in the locker room. Thomas will have the opportunity to compete to make significant contributions to the Jets offense this season, and I am pleased he has become a part of our football team."
Jones was an important part of the Bears' 2006 run to Super Bowl XLI, gaining 1,210 yards on the ground and scoring six touchdowns. He had two 100-yard games in the 2006 NFL playoffs, including 112 yards rushing in the Super Bowl. He gained a career-high 1,335 yards on 314 carries (4.3 yards per rush) and nine touchdowns in 2005.
"I'd like to thank Mr. Johnson and Mike Tannenbaum for making me a part of the organization," Jones said. "I am proud to be a member of the New York Jets and I look forward to getting the chance to work with Coach Mangini and Coach Schottenheimer and my new teammates."
