Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Charlie Jones once again demonstrated his talent for big plays in special teams, scoring a remarkable 98-yard kickoff return touchdown against the Chicago Bears on November 2, 2025. This electrifying play occurred during the opening kickoff of the game, showcasing Jones’s speed and agility as he dashed from the Bengals’ 2-yard line into the end zone.
This accomplishment marks Jones’s third consecutive season with a return touchdown, following a standout rookie year in 2023. In that season, he returned a punt for an impressive 81 yards in a Week 2 loss to the Baltimore Ravens. The following year, he returned a kickoff for a stunning 100 yards in a Week 7 victory over the Cleveland Browns. His consistency in this area has made him a valuable asset for the Bengals, despite his limited role in the team’s receiving corps.
As highlighted by Michael David Smith of Pro Football Talk, prior to Sunday’s game, there had only been one kickoff return touchdown in the NFL this season. With his latest achievement, Jones has now recorded two kickoff-return touchdowns over his three seasons in the league. According to ESPN Research, he stands out as the only player to achieve this feat during that time frame, further solidifying his reputation as a significant contributor in special teams.
Jones’s journey to the NFL included a six-year college career where he played at Iowa and Buffalo, with most of his accolades coming during his time at Purdue University. In 2022, he set the school record for receiving yards in a season with 1,361 yards. Despite this impressive college performance, Jones has primarily served as a return specialist for the Bengals, given the presence of elite wide receivers like Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins on the roster.
As of the game against the Bears, Jones had not recorded any receptions this season, reflecting the depth of talent in the Bengals’ receiving lineup. Throughout his time with the team, he has made just eight receptions for 69 yards and has not yet caught a touchdown pass. While he may not evolve into a star wideout, his ability to score on special teams is a skill that few players can match throughout their careers.
In summary, Charlie Jones continues to impress with his special teams prowess, adding another thrilling moment to his growing highlight reel. With two kickoff return touchdowns to his name, he has already surpassed many players who may never achieve this milestone in their professional journeys. As the season progresses, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see what more this dynamic player can achieve.
