Vikings sign former Packers first-round pick Datone Jones

TUESDAY — The Green Bay Packers continue to see players trickle away in free agency as the days go on. For the second time today, a former Packer free agent signed with an NFC rival.

Datone Jones is joining the Minnesota Vikings, as the team announced early this evening. According to Mike Garofolo of NFL.com, Jones’ contract is for one season and includes $3.75 million in compensation. There are also up to $1.25 million in additional incentives possible.

Although Jones was a first-round pick of the Packers in 2013, he never quite panned out to that draft status. He started his career as a 5-technique defensive end, but was moved to a hybrid elephant end/edge rusher position midway through his third season. He totaled nine sacks in his four years with the Packers and was responsible for three turnover plays — one interception and a pair of fumble recoveries, all in his first two seasons.

According to Bob McGinn of Packersnews.com, Jones will play the 3-technique defensive tackle spot along the Vikings’ defensive line. He did play that position occasionally as a pass-rusher in the Packers’ sub packages.