Ronald Jones injury puts pressure on Leonard Fournette to succeed

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will be turning to Leonard Fournette with Ronald Jones limited. 

Much like every player on the roster, Ronald Jones wanted to do his part for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. After being 11-5 season, the Buccaneers returned to the postseason for the first time since 2007.

Naturally, the intent to make a deep push in the NFC playoff as the team looks to become the first franchise to play in their own stadium for the Super Bowl. However, Jones might not play a big role against the Washington Football Team.

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the third-year running back is questionable to play following a quad injury. During warmups, Jones hurt his quad, thus leaving him on the sideline.

The pressure now will turn to fourth-year pro Leonard Fournette in what could be a prove-it game for his future. Entering the second quarter, Fournette has tallied 27 yards off six carries.

Fournette could earn a new deal this offseason

When originally signed, the Buccaneers believed that Fournette would offer pure power to pair with Jones’ speed. The two were also expected to battle it out for starting reps in the backfield next to Tom Brady.

Instead, Fournette has been limited outside the red zone. So far this year, he’s collected 367 yards off 97 attempts. Meanwhile, Jones is building up for a massive extension with 978 yards and seven touchdowns on the season.

The Buccaneers struck first with a 36-yard touchdown pass to Antonio Brown. With Mike Evans also limited, names like Brown and Fournette could be playing for new deals with the team or on the open market with a big-time outing.

The Buccaneers and Brady will need all hands on deck against Washington’s defense. With Jones’ status now in question, it’s Fournette’s time to show why he was a top-five pick.