Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Ronald Jones named as breakout star

After a less-than-stellar 2018, Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Ronald Jones looks to bounce back; his performance in OTAs has him trending upwards.

OTAs have now concluded for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and one writer believes they have a breakout star in waiting. Last year’s second round pick Ronald Jones struggled mightily as a rookie, but heading into year two, it seems like he has made massive strides in the offseason.

Bleacher Report’s Maurice Moton names Ronald Jones as the one player on the verge of a breakout after OTAs. Moton quotes The Athletic’s Greg Auman, saying:

"“[General manager Jason] Licht said the player who has impressed Bucs coaches the most this spring has been running back Ronald Jones,” Greg Auman of The Athletic tweeted. “Optimism about the position between him and Barber this offseason” (Moton via Bleacher Report)."

Jones managed just one touchdown and 44 yards on only 23 carries. However the Buccaneers decided against drafting another running back in this year’s draft, so Jones and partner Peyton Barber will be lead the attack in Tampa Bay this season.

The Buccaneers have had a lethal passing attack over the past few years, but their rushing attack has held them back. Should Jones burst onto the scene in 2019, then Tampa Bay could see yet another explosive offense this year as well.

Needing to prove that he is well worth the second round investment that the Buccaneers made him in 2018, Jones looks to make a name for himself in Tampa Bay. Keep a close eye on Jones as the summer progresses and into training camp to see how he continues to develop for the Buccaneers in 2019 and beyond.