Buccaneers: Ronald Jones continues to improve in year three
By Rob Leeds
After many analysts speculated that the Buccaneers would make a change at running back this past offseason, Ronald Jones has quickly silenced the pundits with his 2020 performance so far.
After his first year in the NFL, very few people would’ve expected Ronald Jones to play at his current level. Jones was far from flashy but in a bad situation, and even taking the latter into account, the fanbase was still ready to move on.
Despite the very slow start, Jones has turned the page on that part of his career and is currently playing like one of the best running backs in the NFL.
Through the first four weeks, Jones has 359 rushing yards (eighth in the NFL) on 4.9 yards per carry to go along with a touchdown and 15 receptions for 76 yards. The efficiency through the air has taken a step back, but Jones’ ability as a runner has substantially improved.
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The first two games of the season started slow, but they have proved to be the outlier if the numbers hold consistent. After only averaging 3.9 and 3.3 yards per carry during the beginning of the season, Jones has posted 4.1, 5.5, and 6.2 ypc through the following three games.
6.2 yards per carry on 17 touches is one of the best games of Jones’ short career, and it showcases that the sky is still the limit for the Buccaneer running back.
It is also worth noting that the impressive efficiency that Jones has displayed has come about despite his coaching staff. The Buccaneers still predictably run at the worst times (like first down), yet Jones can escape the blown-up plays and make something out of nothing.
RoJo has showcased the impressive skill this year of shedding blockers and making defenders miss in no space, which has allowed for numerous yards after contact and forced missed tackles.
At the current rate that he is playing, Jones should finish the year with 237 rushing attempts for 1,161 rushing yards, which will make him one of the best Buccaneer running backs statistically in years.
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The ceiling is still very high for Ronald Jones, and this season has shown that the best is still yet to come.