The Buccaneers made numerous improvements on the defensive side of the ball in this year’s NFL Draft, but the one rookie that we could be talking about is running back, Ronald Jones II. He should be the starting running back for the 2018 Tampa Bay Buccaneers. His combination of speed, agility, and strength makes him a nightmare for any opposing defense. Jones could be a Pro Bowl selection this year.
The 6’0 – 200 pound USC product racked up 3,600 yards and 39 rushing touchdowns in three years. He added 302 receiving yards with three touchdowns during his time as a Trojan. The Buccaneers saw the potential in Jones and snagged him with the 38th pick overall. Jones has the potential to score every time he touches the ball and the Buccaneers haven’t had someone like that in a very long time.
Tampa has depth at the running back position this upcoming season. They currently have Ronald Jones II, Jacquizz Rodgers, Charles Sims, and Peyton Barber on the roster. Rodgers, Sims, and Barber had numerous opportunities to carry the load in Tampa, but none have taken the reigns. Now their time to be the featured back may be over with the addition of RoJo II.
The era of the four down back is long gone, but Jones could very easily be that type of runner in Tampa. He could very easily be putting up the same, if not better numbers than Saquon Barclay. The Buccaneers offensive line will be much better, as well. There is a ton of optimism with the Buccaneers and Jones adds to the anticipation of a 2018 playoff run.
