Former Eagles legend returns to NFL to sign with Chargers

Donnie Jones is back in the NFL.

The former Philadelphia Eagles punter officially signed with the Los Angeles Chargers on Tuesday after a successful tryout with the team.

“But wait, didn’t Jones retire earlier this year?”

Well, yes, he did. But then the 38-year-old changed his mind and requested his release so that he could sign with a new team. Jones seemingly didn’t draw much interest in the offseason but now he has a new home.

It’s good to see Donnie back doing what he loves. Funny enough, he’s now back with his former teammate, Caleb Sturgis. Strugis has been struggling with the Chargers so far this season. Maybe working with familiar holder will help? Probably not.

With Jones gone, the Eagles decided to move forward with Cameron Johnston as their punter. The Australian native has a strong leg; Johnston leads the league in both gross average (51.5) and net average (49.0). One issue with Johnston, however, is that he hasn’t been super great at directional kicking. His five touchbacks lead the NFL in a bad way. Jones was always good at downing the ball deep inside the opponent’s 20-yard line. Johnston has room to improve in that area.

In fairness to Johnston, Jones is the best punter in Eagles history. He finished his Philly career as the franchise’s leader in gross average (45.4) and net average (40.5).

Long live Donnie Jones.