Carl Jones Jr. Bio
Carl Jones Jr. is an American professional football linebacker currently playing for the Baltimore Ravens in the National Football League (NFL). Born on August 8, 2001, in Bakersfield, California, Jones has developed a reputation for his versatility and athleticism, transitioning from high school quarterback and safety to a collegiate linebacker at UCLA before entering the professional ranks.
Early Life and Background
Carl Jones Jr. was born and raised in Bakersfield, California. He attended Golden Valley High School before transferring to Bakersfield High School, where he was a multi-sport athlete participating in football, basketball, and track and field. During his junior year, Jones played quarterback, throwing for seven touchdowns and rushing for 556 yards with six touchdowns. In his senior year, he demonstrated his versatility by rushing for 296 yards and six touchdowns, catching 24 passes for 589 yards and seven touchdowns, and making 66 tackles on defense.
Jones’s athleticism and football skills earned him a three-star recruit rating, leading to his commitment to play college football at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).
Path to American Football
At UCLA, Jones transitioned from playing safety in high school to linebacker, also contributing as an edge rusher. His adaptability allowed him to contribute in various defensive roles throughout his collegiate career. Over five seasons, he steadily increased his impact on the field, culminating in a senior year where he started four games and recorded 31 tackles and two sacks.
Jones concluded his college career with a total of 135 tackles, 23 tackles-for-loss, and eight sacks, showcasing his growth and readiness for professional football.
Carl Jones Jr. Career
Early Career (2019–2023)
Jones began his college football career at UCLA in 2019, appearing in all 12 games and starting two as a freshman. He recorded 24 tackles in his first season. Over the next three years, he continued to contribute primarily as a reserve linebacker, playing in every game each season and accumulating tackles and defensive plays that demonstrated his steady development.
In his senior year in 2023, Jones earned more starting opportunities, appearing in 13 games with four starts. He finished the season with 31 tackles and two sacks, marking his most productive collegiate season and solidifying his status as a professional prospect.
Chicago Bears Era (2024–2025)
After going undrafted in the 2024 NFL Draft, Carl Jones Jr. signed with the Chicago Bears as an undrafted free agent. He was waived during the preseason but quickly re-signed to the practice squad. Jones made his NFL debut in Week 10 of the 2024 season against the New England Patriots, participating in special teams plays.
Jones signed a reserve/future contract with the Bears in January 2025. Throughout the 2025 season, he experienced multiple roster moves, including being waived, re-signed to the practice squad, promoted to the active roster, and released again. Despite these challenges, Jones remained a valuable depth player and special teams contributor for the Bears.
Baltimore Ravens Era (2025–Present)
On December 8, 2025, Carl Jones Jr. was claimed off waivers by the Baltimore Ravens. This move marks a new chapter in his professional career as he seeks to establish himself as a key linebacker and special teams asset with the Ravens organization.
Driving Style and Strengths
Carl Jones Jr. is known for his versatility and athleticism, capable of playing multiple positions in the linebacker corps. His background as a safety and quarterback provides him with a strong understanding of defensive schemes and offensive tendencies. Jones excels in pursuit and tackling, with the ability to contribute effectively on special teams.
Notable Events and Milestones
Jones’s NFL debut in 2024 with the Chicago Bears stands as a significant milestone, marking his transition from college standout to professional player. His persistence through roster changes and practice squad assignments highlights his determination to succeed at the highest level.
Carl Jones Jr. Career Wins
As a linebacker, Carl Jones Jr.’s contributions are measured more by tackles and defensive plays than traditional wins. Throughout his collegiate career at UCLA, he amassed significant defensive statistics, including 135 tackles and eight sacks, demonstrating his impact on the field.
College Career Highlights
Jones’s consistent presence in UCLA’s defense over five seasons, culminating in a strong senior year, reflects his development and readiness for professional football. His ability to adapt from safety to linebacker and contribute as an edge rusher underscores his versatility.
Professional Highlights
Jones’s elevation to the Chicago Bears active roster and NFL debut in 2024 are key professional highlights. His ongoing efforts to secure a stable role in the NFL continue with his recent acquisition by the Baltimore Ravens.
Carl Jones Jr. Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
There is no publicly available information regarding Carl Jones Jr.’s family background or any athletic lineage.
Personal Life
Details about Carl Jones Jr.’s personal life, including marital status and family, have not been publicly disclosed.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season has been a period of transition and opportunity for Carl Jones Jr. After spending time on the Chicago Bears practice squad and active roster, he was claimed by the Baltimore Ravens in December. This move offers Jones a fresh start to compete for playing time and contribute on defense and special teams. His adaptability and work ethic position him well to make an impact as he continues to develop in the NFL.