PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – While NFL players were dealing with the hardships of COVID protocols in 2020. Linebacker Jamir Jones was dealing with the hardships of having a regular job. The former Notre Dame defensive end was out of football, waived after camp in Houston.
“I worked a few jobs while I was home,” Jones said. “It didn’t take long to see that is something I didn’t want to do.”
Jones worked at Amazon, Champs and did some content creation for a website.
“It just made me want to go harder,” Jones said. “Push myself harder and not give up on my dream.”
He worked with former NFL offensive lineman Bruce Smith on pass rushing moves. Believing he would give it another shot and got it when the Steelers signed the 6’3”, 255-pound Jones on April 7. Now he’s learning from one of the best in the league at his new position, outside linebacker.
“TJ Watt is definitely one of the best pass rushers in the game right now,” Jones said. “He has infinite knowledge or pre-snap. Being able to know what is coming, being able to look at the tackle’s stance, where the back is, where the quarterback is. Knowing what is coming each-and-every play.”
“It’s always the speed that changes from level to level. Being able to know where you are going and know what you are doing faster helps a lot.”
Now that he has the second chance, he’s playing every snap like it’s his last. And it could be.
“Where I get people is, I’m relentless,” Jones said. “I’m just going to rush until the whistle’s blown. Try to get around the ball. Try to make sure I’m by the quarterback by the ball, every single play.”
“I feel with that relentlessness as the game goes on, I can outhustle some guys and get there for some plays.”
His opportunity on defense likely isn’t this season, barring a series of injuries. He knows where he can contribute right away is on the third part of the game.
“Special teams is something that I’ve always loved,” Jones said. “I feel like it’s the most important part of the game. Getting the defense set up in good field position and setting the offense up in good field position. Takes all three phases to capitalize on what we want to do out here.”
Jones was noticeable against the Eagles, four total tackles, three solo including a sack.
He’s currently listed behind veteran Cassius Marsh and also battling with sixth round draft pick Quincy Roche and undrafted free agent Jamir Watson. Long-shot, maybe, but just imagine the employees at Champs if one of their fellow co-workers made a NFL team.