Following a disappointing 2017 season, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have made some notable changes in the backfield to help bring much-needed stability to the offense.
One of which was the selection of former USC standout running back Ronald Jones in the second round of this year's draft. Buccaneers director of player personnel John Spytek stated on Monday during an appearance on NFL Network's Good Morning Football that he believes that Jones has a skill set that no other running back on the team has had over the last few years (h/t Chris Wesseling of NFL.com).
“Just excited about the dimension he adds to our offense,” Spytek told Good Morning Football on Monday. “I don't think it's something we've had here since I've been down here in Tampa.”
Beyond his blazing track-type speed, Jones put on display during his collegiate career that he can be a game-changing factor out of the backfield. Much of that came with his explosive big-play ability running the ball as he showed the ability to take over games behind his production.
Although he didn't show it in a great capacity, he could become a huge impact player in the passing game as a receiver behind his speed and quickness.
It sounds quite clear that the Buccaneers have some big plans ahead for Jones that could see him become the primary running back this upcoming season that could make him a sleeper to win the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award. He will have competition at the position for playing time alongside Peyton Barber, Charles Sims and Jacquizz Rodgers in training camp and the preseason.
Jones may quickly latch onto a prominent role that could see him provide balance to the offense that is needed for the Buccaneers to finally break through for a playoff appearance and possible NFC South division title in the 2018 campaign.
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