Jacoby Jones demoted to third string punt returner

Steelers wide receiver Jacoby Jones has been stripped of his kick returning duties.

Jacoby Jones, you had one job.

When the Steelers cut Dri Archer, they were looking for a man who could get the ball out to the 20 yard line and not fumble the football. Apparently, they no longer believe Jones is that man. Head Coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday (per NFL.com) that Jones has been demoted to third-string punt returner.

Jones fumbled twice in Sunday’s victory over the Indianapolis Colts. He was previously cut by the San Diego Chargers for his -.08-yard punt return average. Jones hasn’t been much more dynamic for the black and gold this season.

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Jones will be replaced by Markus Wheaton in the primary kick returning role, and will be replaced full-time by Antonio Brown as the team’s punt returner. Given Brown’s stardom and ability, giving him punt returning duties could be cause for concern among Steeler nation. Jones was brought in to take pressure off Brown and to keep the All-Pro receiver healthy.

However, it seems like the Jacoby Jones experiment has failed in the Steel City. Jones terrorized the Steelers while playing for the Baltimore Ravens. Who can forget the time that Mike Tomlin “got in the way” of Jones on Thanksgiving night.

However, Jones seems like he’s lost about 30 steps from what he was on that night.

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He hasn’t done much of anything since his Ravens’ days, and it seems like the Steelers should look into picking up another offensive lineman or defensive back in Jones’ place.