The Chargers signed return specialist Mark Jones to a one-year contract on Friday.

While Jones, 27, can also play wide receiver, he has exclusively been used as a returner in four NFL seasons -- one with the New York Giants and the past three with Tampa Bay.

Jones saw action in just six games last season before suffering a season-ending knee injury. He was averaging 11.9 yards on 12 punt returns and 28.6 yards on 10 kickoff returns when he was hurt.

The 5-foot-9, 185-pound Jones has a career punt return average of 8.7 yards.

"Mark's versatility was very attractive to us," general manager A.J. Smith said in a press release. "He's an experienced NFL punt returner and a solid player who will raise the level of competition in our camp."

The Chargers also announced they have waived four players: cornerback Stanley Franks, guard Charles Manu, running back Germaine Race and defensive tackle Keith Shologan.

-- Mike Sullivan