Join our FREE personalized newsletter for news, trends, and insights that matter to everyone in America

Newsletter
New

Giants Sign Charlie Jones To Practice Squad

Card image cap

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Charlie Jones (15) walks between sessions during practice at the Paycor Stadium practice facility in downtown Cincinnati on Monday, Aug. 3, 2026. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Co

Since being drafted in the fourth round of the 2023 Draft, Charlie Jones has been the Cincinnati Bengals’ primary punt returner.

And he was, no doubt, good at that job.

He’s returned 50 career punts for 452 yards and a touchdown. He also has 47 kickoff returns for 1,284 yards and two touchdowns. Meanwhile, Jones has eight career receptions for 69 yards.

Jones became expendable this offseason when Cincinnati found a couple of very promising receivers in Dohnte Meyers and Colbie Young. And they found a new return man in Ke’Shawn Williams late last season.

Today, just two days after being cut by the Bengals, Jones was signed to the practice squad of the New York Giants.

Giants signed WR/returner Charlie Jones and DB Elijah Jones to the practice squad, per sources.

Charlie is an interesting add. Was primary punt and kick returner in Cincinnati last year.

— Art Stapleton (@art_stapleton) September 1, 2026

If he makes the roster, Jones will be coached by former Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh, who got to see Jones’ ability up close for three years.

Charlie Jones punt return touchdown in 2023 vs Ravens.

Head Coach? John Harbaugh
Punter? Jordan Stout

This was the fourth return of Jones' career. He ran a 4.43 forty, by the way with a 4.14 shuttle and 6.84 three-cone. Excellent athlete. pic.twitter.com/CVGaSidrcZ

— The Giant Insider Podcast and Newspaper (@GiantInsider) September 1, 2026

This could end up being an opportunity for Jones to shine, as Harbaugh had been a special teams coordinator for the University of Cincinnati, Indiana University Bloomington, and the Philadelphia Eagles before coaching the Ravens.