GLENDALE, Ariz. — Adam Jones wanted to get hit, first. Next, he’ll wait for assurance he made the team.
And then he’ll reciprocate Champ Bailey’s blessing and wear the Broncos’ No. 24 for the first time in five years.
“Yeah, I will,’’ Jones said after he had two kickoff returns, a punt return, and a couple defensive series at cornerback – while wearing No. 20 -- in the Broncos’ 21-10 preseason win Thursday against the Arizona Cardinals. “I’m going to wear ‘24’ week 1 if I’m here, hopefully.’’
He’ll be there against the Seattle Seahawks on September 9. And he’ll collect a $90,000 roster bonus on top of his $1,015,000 salary when he does. After not playing or practicing since last December, when he was finishing up his eight-year stint with the Cincinnati Bengals, Jones told Broncos head coach Vance Joseph before the preseason game Thursday night that he wanted to play so he could get hit.
Two kickoff returns for a 26.0-yard average and a 3-yard return off a cleanly fielded punt got him tackled.
“It felt good to get hit,’’ he said. “That’s what I needed.’’
Jones said he was aware of the 9NEWS report Tuesday where he got the OK from Bailey to wear No. 24.
No Bronco has worn the number since Bailey finished up his 10-year, eight-Pro Bowl term with the team following the 2013-season Super Bowl.
“I thought that was pretty cool of him,’’ Jones said. “Me and Champ know each other pretty well. He’s from Atlanta.
“Actually, we talked a little bit before you guys got to him. I’ve always looked up to Champ. He’s the reason I wore 24 in the first place. He’s a Georgia boy and me and him are from Georgia. That was one of the guys I tried to critique and build my game around. I’ve always been a fan of his.’’