3 Tampa Bay Buccaneers with the most to prove in 2019

By Cory Kinnan | May 10, 2019

TAMPA, FL - DECEMBER 18: Quarterback Jameis Winston #3 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers makes his way through the tunnel to warm up before the start of an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons on December 18, 2017 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Brian Blanco/Getty Images) /

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Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images /

RB Ronald Jones II

To say Ronald Jones’ rookie year was tumultuous may have been an understatement. While the offensive line did not help the Buccaneers’ running attacking, Jones averaged less than two yards per carry and struggled to find the field in Tampa Bay. If the former second round pick does not turn it around in 2019, he could be looking for a new home after this season.

Jones managed only 23 carries in 2019, a total some bellcows will surpass in one game; he managed just one score and 44 yards rushing last year as well. He graded out at a below average 48.8 according to Pro Football Focus (subscription required). Splitting time with Peyton Barber in 2019, he hopes to get more carries this season after the departure of Jacquizz Rodgers and hopes to get over the two yards per carry hump.

After the Buccaneers decided not to sign or draft another running back, they are determined to put the workload of the running game on the shoulders of Jones and Barber. Jones has his future on the line and may have gotten a second chance due to the new regime; if he cannot thrive under Arians, then he may be looking for a new place to play football.

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