Seahawks Release Velus Jones Jr. to Activate Irv Charles Amid Fumble Crisis
The Seattle Seahawks released running back Velus Jones Jr. from their active roster to create space for wide receiver Irv Charles, who was activated from injured reserve. Jones, a veteran who played in three games during Seattle’s 2025 Super Bowl run, had not recorded a carry this season and was primarily used on special teams. The move coincides with a team-wide focus on reducing fumbles, as head coach Mike Macdonald called ball security 'non-negotiable' after recent turnovers by other running backs. The Seahawks may re-sign Jones to the practice squad shortly.
Key points
- The Seahawks released Velus Jones Jr. to make room for wide receiver Irv Charles, who was activated from injured reserve.
- Jones, who appeared in 41 NFL games including three during the 2025 Super Bowl run, had no carries this season and was used mainly on special teams.
- Head coach Mike Macdonald emphasized that protecting the football is 'non-negotiable' following fumbles by Jadarian Price and George Holani.
- The team acquired Charles from the Jets in May, with GM John Schneider describing him as a 'dominant gunner' for special teams.
- Jones was not placed on waivers and may be re-signed to the practice squad within 24 hours.
Background
This roster move occurs after the Seahawks lost to the San Francisco 49ers in Week 5, a game where running back George Holani committed a critical fumble. The team had previously struggled with ball security, prompting Macdonald to stress daily fundamentals in ball carrying. Earlier in the season, the Seahawks won a close Week 1 game against the Patriots despite quarterback Sam Darnold’s injury, highlighting the importance of defensive stops and ball control.
Why it matters
The release of a Super Bowl-winning veteran highlights the Seahawks’ urgent need to stabilize their running back position and special teams unit. By activating Irv Charles, the team prioritizes a player with proven special teams impact, while the potential re-signing of Jones to the practice squad suggests a desire to retain his versatility without sacrificing active roster spots. This move reflects the team’s broader effort to address fumbling issues that have plagued their offense this season.
What to watch
The Seahawks are expected to decide whether to re-sign Velus Jones Jr. to the practice squad within 24 hours. The team will also monitor the performance of Irv Charles on special teams and as a receiver, while continuing to address fumble issues among their remaining running backs.
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