When the Bucs selected Ronald Jones last April in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft, most felt the team upgraded the running back position in a big way. In, fact many didn’t wonder if former USC running back Ronald Jones II would unseat incumbent Peyton Barber, but when it would take place.
Hopefully none of those fans were holding their collective breath.
Through four preseason games not only has Jones underwhelmed in the stats department versus the other backs on the Bucs roster, he has underwhelmed statistically when compared to last year’s rookie running back Jeremy McNichols, a fifth-round selection. The former Boise State standout didn’t even make it to the opening day roster for the Bucs after a preseason where he ran for 79 yards on 23 carries.
Jones who was the 38th overall pick last April didn’t even average a yard per carry, and finished the preseason with 22 yards on 28 carries and one touchdown.
Photo Courtesy Of Pat Donovan