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Ronald Jones II 2018 Player Outlook: Rookie Runner Needs To Show Ability In Pass Game
6 years agoThe Tampa Bay Buccaneers used a second-round pick on USC running back Ronald Jones II in the NFL draft this past spring. The rookie runner was thought to be one of the most explosive running back prospects in the draft but pulled a hamstring during the NFL combine. Jones enters what could be a crowded backfield in Tampa Bay as the Bucs employ Peyton Barber, Charles Sims, and Jacquizz Rodgers. The best-case scenario would be that Jones wins the every-down role over the other runners and sees around 20-25 touches per game. More likely, however, is that Jones splits early-down touches with Barber, who reportedly is the leading candidate to open the season as the team's starter. Another concern with Jones is how adept he will be in the passing game. The rookie only caught 32 total passes in three seasons at USC, with his most coming in 2017 when he caught 14. Treat Jones as an RB4 in fantasy drafts this season as he will need an injury or two ahead of him to see a major workload in his rookie campaign.
