All the running back talk actually seems sincere
Last season the Buccaneers had one of the worst running games in the entire league. Peyton Barber rushed for less than four yards per carry, and Ronald Jones less than two per carry. The Buccaneers chose not to sign or draft a back this offseason (besides undrafted free agent Bruce Anderson), and have been adamant that they want to give Jones and Barber the benefit of the doubt.
It is now apparent that they were being 100 percent sincere and are ready to run it back with Jones and Barber. Making just a tweak to their offensive line, they are hoping a change in blocking scheme will give them a boost up front and clear more lanes for the young backs.
Arians reiterated that he’s confident in what he has at running back, liking the combination of Peyton Barber and Ronald Jones. Eager to see both in pads. Said Barber checked in at 229 pounds.
— Greg Auman (@gregauman) July 25, 2019
While the Bucs could still add another veteran, talented back like Duke Johnson or Melvin Gordon, this looks more and more unlikely every day. Jones looks to prove his worth as a former second round pick from a year ago, and Barber enters this season looking to earn a payday at the end of it.
Arians and his staff have confidence in Jones and Barber, but should they? Should we? It is only a matter of time to see if the move not to upgrade the backfield was merited or if it were pure stubbornness.