It’s been a while since we’ve had a rookie make the Pro Bowl unless you count Jameis Winston’s invitation as an alternate and ultimately getting the call to play.
The last time a rookie went to the Pro Bowl was in 2012 when Doug Martin was asked to go and Lavonte David was first snubbed. Since that time, its been a constant snubbing of our rookies and players as a whole, despite how well they’ve played and how much they’ve deserved to be invited, or voted in, as it has been for quite some time. Some could argue we haven’t had a rookie good enough to make the Pro Bowl since 2012, other than Winston. Although my opinion does not matter by any means, I, as a die-hard Bucs fan, would have to point out the outstanding rookie years of Donovan Smith, Ali Marpet, Mike Evans, and (I like) Justin Evans.
Despite the popularity contest that is now the Pro Bowl, or how dull the game has actually become, there are still fans, who enjoy watching the game and players, who enjoy the paid vacation and the scrimmage after, for many, the end of their season.
This year there seems to be a lot of hype surrounding second-round draft pick running back Ronald Jones II, and it’s created some interesting conversation around social media and sports media.
One example is and the focal point of this article is that writer Erik Lambert of Fansided has predicted that RoJo will be the next Bucs rookie to make the Pro Bowl. Hell, some have even said they think he can be the Offensive Rookie of The Year.
“If he hadn’t suffered an injury that hampered his pre-draft workouts, it’s fair to wonder if Jones would’ve been another running back taken in the 1st round. He certainly has that talent with a solid running style, good size and natural hands as a pass catcher. He’s the critical component that Buccaneers offense has been missing. They have weapons everywhere else from Mike Evans to Desean Jackson and O.J. Howard. Put it this way. If they squeeze over 1,300 yards out of Peyton Barber, Jacquizz Rodgers and a burned out Doug Martin? Jones should do damage.”
My opinion does not really matter, but for what it’s worth, I do not see this happening. Stranger things have happened, however.
The flashiness and incredible burst of speed that Jones produces, I believe will only be a compliment to Peyton Barber, and with Tampa known for its running backs by committee, it will be difficult for one produce Pro Bowler caliber stats. With that said we shall see what happens next season.
