Ronald Jones finally appears ready to break out for the Buccaneers

Buccaneers running back Ronald Jones has underwhelmed in his first two seasons, but, with Tom Brady in the fold, appears destined for a breakout season.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Ronald Jones rebounded from a rough rookie season in 2019, tallying 724 yards and six touchdowns on the ground. Now, with legendary quarterback Tom Brady in the fold for his third NFL season, Jones appears set to truly break out in 2020.

Head coach Bruce Arians has already expressed his faith in Jones, stating that the USC product will “carry the load” in the running game, per CBS Sports. NFL.com also reports that while much of the focus has been on Jones improving as a receiver, his speed in practice has been truly impressive.

Ronald Jones appears ready for his breakout season with the Buccaneers

Per NFL Network’s James Palmer, Jones “outran the defense” for a 40-yard touchdown in Tuesday’s practice, showing off the speed that made him an early second-round pick. While he still has to improve his blocking and pass-catching, the team clearly believes in his skill set.

New quarterback Tom Brady loves to throw to his running backs, standing in stark contrast to James Winston, who always had his eyes locked downfield. With more passes coming his way, Jones could finally deliver on fantasy expectations, as well.

James White always served as Brady’s safety valve in New England, and the lack of a pass-catching threat out of the backfield in Tampa Bay is truly the only question mark on an otherwise loaded offense.

If Jones can play that role and become a dual-threat, he has a chance to make his first Pro Bowl, especially considering Brady’s penchant for checking down to his backs. With the offense likely to turn the ball over much less in 2020 without Winston around, Jones will get the looks he needs to establish himself as the featured back.