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Fantasy Player Profile

  • AActive
  • Manager: FA
  •  
@ATL: #26 vs opposing RB - 26.68 FPA
Bye Week9Rank62% Rostered24.4% Change0.1WK 12 Pts9.70WK 13 Proj. Pts5.22
2021 Fantasy Stats
   PassingRushingReceivingRetMiscFumFantasy
WkOppResultsYdsTDIntYdsTDRecYdsTDTDFumTD2PTLostPts
1DAL
Win, 31-29
---14-------1-0.60
2ATL
Win, 48-25
---27-19-----4.60
3@LA
Loss, 24-34
---11--------1.10
4@NE
Win, 19-17
---251-------8.50
5MIA
Win, 45-17
---21-115-----4.60
6@PHI
Win, 28-22
---20-19-----3.90
7CHI
Win, 38-3
---63-------14.30
8@NO
Loss, 27-36
---13-16-----2.90
9Bye  ------------0.00
10@WAS
Loss, 19-29
------------0.00
11NYG
Win, 30-10
---331-------9.30
12@IND
Win, 38-31
---371-------9.70
13@ATL
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
------------0.00
14BUF
Sun 1:25 pmGet Tickets
------------0.00
15NO
Sun 5:20 pmGet Tickets
------------0.00
16@CAR
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
------------0.00
17@NYJ
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
------------0.00
18CAR
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
------------0.00
2021 Fantasy Stats
  RushingReceivingFumFantasy
WkOppYdsTDYdsTDLostPts
1DAL,
W 31-29
14---1-0.60
2ATL,
W 48-25
27-9--4.60
3@LA,
L 24-34
11----1.10
4@NE,
W 19-17
251---8.50
5MIA,
W 45-17
21-15--4.60
6@PHI,
W 28-22
20-9--3.90
7CHI,
W 38-3
63---14.30
8@NO,
L 27-36
13-6--2.90
9Bye-----0.00
10@WAS,
L 19-29
-----0.00
11NYG,
W 30-10
331---9.30
12@IND,
W 38-31
371---9.70
13@ATL,
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
-----0.00
14BUF,
Sun 1:25 pmGet Tickets
-----0.00
15NO,
Sun 5:20 pmGet Tickets
-----0.00
16@CAR,
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
-----0.00
17@NYJ,
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
-----0.00
18CAR,
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
-----0.00
  • 1-0.60
  • 24.60
  • 31.10
  • 48.50
  • 54.60
  • 63.90
  • 74.30
  • 82.90
  • 9
  • 10
  • 119.30
  • 129.70
  • 13
Fantasy Points
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  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5
  6. 6
  7. 7
  8. 8
  9. 9 Bye
  10. 10
  11. 11
  12. 12
  13. 13
  14. 14
  15. 15
  16. 16
  17. 17
  18. 18

News

  • Another touchdown in win

    Jones rushed seven times for 37 yards and a touchdown in the Buccaneers' 38-31 win over the Colts on Sunday.

    Analysis: Jones was able to cash in on his second touchdown in as many games when he went in from one yard out late in the third quarter. The fourth-year back is clearly stuck behind Leonard Fournette in the backfield pecking order, but he seems to be embracing his complementary role without complaint and has at least registered on the fantasy radar with his pair of recent scores.

    Published: Mon, Nov 29 at 9:06pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Finds end zone

    Jones rushed eight times for 33 yards and a touchdown in Monday night's 30-10 win over the Giants.

    Analysis: Jones took a carry around the left side to score from six yards out in the second quarter, marking his second end-zone trip of the campaign. With the Buccaneers never relinquishing the lead that play gave them, Jones was incorporated slightly more in the running game than usual, getting just two fewer carries than starter Leonard Fournette. Even though he was again efficient with his touches Monday, Jones' backup role limits his expected value ahead of Week 12's matchup versus the Colts.

    Published: Mon, Nov 22 at 9:05pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Logs one snap in loss

    Jones did not record a touch on his one snap from scrimmage during Sunday's 29-19 loss to Washington, but head coach Bruce Arians stated after the game his lack of opportunity was due to the offense running significantly fewer plays than usual, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: The Buccaneers ran just 48 plays during the upset, and if Arians is to be taken at his word, that alone explains Jones' almost complete absence from the offense. However, even with more conventional game scripts, the fourth-year back hasn't logged more than 13 snaps from scrimmage since Week 2, so his prospects remain dim heading into a Week 11 matchup versus the Giants.

    Published: Mon, Nov 15 at 9:56pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Four touches in divisional loss

    Jones rushed three times for 13 yards and brought in his only target for six yards in the Buccaneers' 36-27 loss to the Saints on Sunday.

    Analysis: A week after logging 10 carries in a blowout win over the Bears, Jones was back down to a relatively meager role Sunday, although the running game as a whole took a backseat against the Saints. Jones' clear backup role has no ambiguity attached, however, and he figures to continue serving as a seldom-used understudy to Leonard Fournette when the Buccaneers return from a Week 9 bye to face Washington.

    Published: Mon, Nov 1 at 7:23am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Busier than usual in Week 7 win

    Jones rushed 10 times for 63 yards in the Buccaneers' 38-3 win over the Bears on Sunday. He also lost a fumble.

    Analysis: Jones logged just five fewer carries than backfield mate Leonard Fournette, but when factoring in that even the seldom-used Ke'Shawn Vaughn got five totes himself, it becomes clear the extra workload was a product of game script. The Buccaneers had a 35-3 lead by halftime, so the ground attack took center stage during the second half and led to Jones seeing his heaviest rushing workload of the season by far. That led to a season-high yardage tally as well, but Jones could well be back to…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 24 at 6:11pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Saddled with backup duties

    Jones rushed five times for 20 yards and secured his only target for nine yards in the Buccaneers' 28-22 win over the Eagles on Thursday night.

    Analysis: For the third straight contest, Jones worked as a clear understudy to lead back Leonard Fournette, who garnered 28 total touches to Jones' six. The fourth-year back saw just 13 snaps from scrimmage, his fourth consecutive game under 15 plays. At this point, it appears it will take an injury to Fournette for Jones to have any fantasy relevance beyond the deepest of formats.

    Published: Fri, Oct 15 at 9:01pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Works as clear backup in win

    Jones rushed five times for 21 yards and brought in his only target for 15 yards in the Buccaneers' 45-17 win over the Dolphins on Sunday.

    Analysis: Jones' backfield mate Leonard Fournette once again operated as the clear lead back with a team-high 12 carries, and Jones even saw just one more rush attempt than change-of-pace option Giovani Bernard. The consistently reduced role seems to be one that will stick to Jones as long as Fournette remains healthy, leaving Jones' fantasy value depressed going into the Week 6 Thursday night battle against the Eagles.

    Published: Sun, Oct 10 at 8:33pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Finds end zone in win

    Jones rushed six times for 25 yards and a touchdown and wasn't targeted in the passing game during the Buccaneers' 19-17 win over the Patriots on Sunday night.

    Analysis: The fourth-year back's role as just a complementary option to Leonard Fournette was never clearer than against the Patriots, when the latter outpaced Jones by 14 carries and five targets. However, Jones was the one who was able to cash in with a touchdown, notching an eight-yard score in which he was able to get just inside the right pylon late in the third quarter. Jones' unquestionably diminished role is a concern, however, as the six carries he logged Sunday equaled a season high. The…read more

    Published: Mon, Oct 4 at 9:08am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Minimal production in Week 3 loss

    Jones rushed five times for 11 yards and did not draw a target in the Buccaneers' 34-24 loss to the Rams on Sunday.

    Analysis: The lack of production wasn't a byproduct of Leonard Fournette significantly outpacing the fourth-year back in actual touches. Instead, game script forced the Buccaneers to turn toward the pass relatively early in the second half, and Jones actually drew one more carry than his teammate. However, Fournette saw three targets to Jones' none, and he also logged 26 snaps compared to Jones' 12. Fournette's role in the passing game has a lot to do with the ongoing disparity between the backs, but a…read more

    Published: Mon, Sep 27 at 8:14am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Still clearly behind Fournette

    Jones rushed six times for 27 yards and secured one of three targets for nine yards in the Buccaneers' 48-25 win over the Falcons on Sunday.

    Analysis: Jones did in fact start the game and took the first carry for the Buccaneers for an eight-yard gain, but Leonard Fournette ultimately outpaced Jones by five rush attempts and three catches, albeit on just one additional target. Jones did average a healthy 4.5 yards per carry overall, and despite his underwhelming usage over the first pair of contests, head coach Bruce Arians is certainly capable of switching gears with his backs in any given game depending on who has the hot hand. Therefore,…read more

    Published: Mon, Sep 20 at 7:45am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Named starter heading into Week 2

    Buccaneers head coach Bruce Arians said that Jones will serve as the team's starting running back in Sunday's game against the Falcons, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Though he entered Week 1 atop the depth chart, Jones didn't actually start in the Bucs' season-opening win over the Cowboys, as he wasn't on the field for the team's first snap. He didn't end up working as a de facto starter, either, as he played just nine percent of the team's offensive snaps, trailing fellow running backs Leonard Fournette (64 percent) and Gio Bernard (27 percent). Jones' limited use was largely the byproduct of a fumble early in the contest, but Arians said he believes the…read more

    Published: Tue, Sep 14 at 9:19am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Early fumble leads to benching

    Jones carried four times for 14 yards and lost a fumble in the Buccaneers' 31-29 win over the Cowboys on Thursday night.

    Analysis: Jones lost the handle on a run off right tackle midway through the second quarter on a hit from the Cowboys' DeMarcus Lawrence, a turnover that ended up leading to a touchdown for Dallas five plays later. Greg Auman of The Athletic relays that head coach Bruce Arians confirmed Jones "struggled mentally to get over [the turnover]," which led to Leonard Fournette handling the rushing workload the remainder of the night for Tampa Bay. Despite the season-opening setback, Jones remains a key…read more

    Published: Fri, Sep 10 at 8:26pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Early down timeshare on tap

    Jones is still slated to share primary ball carrier duties with Leonard Fournette to open the season and is likely to yield most third downs to offseason acquisition Giovani Bernard, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: If a true timeshare arrangement consistently holds true in the Buccaneers backfield, the fantasy value of both Fournette and Jones naturally will be capped to an extent. However, head coach Bruce Arians previously has touted both and carried out a hot-hand approach to the ground attack, so it isn't out of the realm of possibility that each player will have his share of 15-to-25 carry days this coming season, for example. What does seem like more of a certainty for Jones is the likelihood he's…read more

    Published: Mon, Aug 23 at 5:45pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Brief appearance Saturday

    Jones gained zero yards on his only carry in Saturday's preseason loss to the Bengals.

    Analysis: All three of the Bucs' top running backs (Jones, Leonard Fournette and former Bengal Giovani Bernard) saw snaps on Tampa Bay's first possession of the night while Tom Brady was under center, and all three quickly came out of the game afterward, offering little clarity on how coach Bruce Arians plans to deploy the trio come Week 1. Jones racked up four 100-yard games in 2020 and just missed recording his first 1,000-yard campaign, but he took a back seat to Fournette in the postseason. If that…read more

    Published: Sun, Aug 15 at 5:38am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Viewed as co-starter ahead of camp

    Coach Bruce Arians remarked that he viewed both Jones and backfield mate Leonard Fournette as No. 1 backs during mandatory minicamp, Scott Smith of the Buccaneers' official site reports. "It's a hell of a group," said Arians. "Both those guys are starters in my mind. Whoever goes out first doesn't really matter to me. But that will be determined in camp."

    Analysis: Jones opened the 2020 season as the clear-cut top back with Fournette having just joined the team prior to Week 1, and he earned the right to hold onto that designation for most of the 14 regular-season games for which he was healthy. Jones compiled 978 rushing yards and seven touchdowns (5.1 YPC) while adding a 28-165-1 line through the air. However, an ill-timed quad contusion sustained in pregame warmups before a wild-card game against Washington altered the postseason fortunes of both Jones…read more

    Published: Mon, Jun 21 at 1:00pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Joined by Fournette again in '21

    Jones will share backfield duties again with Leonard Fournette in 2021 after the latter re-signed with the Buccaneers on a one-year deal on March 26, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Jones logged a team-high 192 carries in 2020, with Fournette a distant second with 97 attempts while appearing in just one fewer game. However, the latter took off in the postseason, beginning with a wild-card win over Washington that Jones missed after suffering a quadriceps pull in pregame warmups. Given Fournette's productivity at the most critical time of year and his superior pass-catching skills, Jones could find himself in a much closer timeshare arrangement in the coming campaign.

    Published: Mon, Apr 26 at 9:28pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Bound for minor surgery

    Jones will undergo surgery to have a pin removed from his left pinky finger Tuesday, Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

    Analysis: Jones had surgery to address a broken finger back in mid-December, and he'll now undergo another procedure to fully address the issue. After returning from his initial surgery, he was able to play through his finger injury, though he did subsequently miss time due to COVID-19 protocols and a quad contusion, ultimately playing second fiddle to Leonard Fournette during Tampa Bay's playoff run. Jones should remain on track for the tentative start of offseason workouts, and with Fournette on track…read more

    Published: Mon, Feb 15 at 9:40am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Plays complementary role in SB win

    Jones rushed 12 times for 61 yards and failed to bring in his only target during the Buccaneers' 31-9 win over the Chiefs in Super Bowl LV on Sunday.

    Analysis: As was the case through the Buccaneers' divisional-round and conference-championship wins, Jones played a complementary role to Leonard Fournette, although he did trail his teammate in carries by only four. The third-year back may have never ceded the lead-back role to Fournette had he not been felled by a quadriceps contusion during warmups before a wild-card game against Washington, but Jones still averaged 4.0 yards per carry over the three postseason games he played in. Moreover, Jones just…read more

    Published: Sun, Feb 7 at 9:02pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Stymied in conference title game

    Jones rushed 10 times for 16 yards and did not receive a target during the Buccaneers' 31-26 win over the Packers in Sunday's NFC Championship Game.

    Analysis: Jones once again played second fiddle to Leonard Fournette, who logged a total of 17 touches. He also averaged three yards less per carry than Fournette's 4.6, and Jones' complete lack of a role in the passing game seems to further cement the fact the two backs have swapped places on the depth chart ahead of a Super Bowl LV matchup versus either the Bills or Chiefs on Sunday, Feb. 7.

    Published: Sun, Jan 24 at 4:30pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • All set for Sunday

    Jones (quad/finger) was a full practice participant Friday and doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against Green Bay, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: After a setback with his quad injury kept him on the sideline for the wild-card round, Jones reentered the mix for last week's 30-20 win over New Orleans, taking 13 carries for 62 yards on 29 percent snap share. Leonard Fournette had 17 carries and five catches on 68 percent of snaps, but he mostly worked behind Jones when both were healthy during the regular season.

    Published: Fri, Jan 22 at 1:40pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Logs limited practice Thursday

    Jones (quad/finger) was limited at practice Thursday, Adam Caplan of SiriusXM NFL Radio reports.

    Analysis: Jones picked up a few bumps and bruises near the end of the regular season and prior to Tampa Bay's playoff opener at Washington. While he only played 29 percent of the offensive snaps during the divisional-round win in New Orleans, he churned out a healthy 62 yards on 13 rushes (4.8 YPC). In the same game, Leonard Fournette led the Bucs backfield, turning 22 touches into 107 yards from scrimmage and one TD. Assuming Jones is able to suit up again Sunday at Green Bay, he seems poised to play…read more

    Published: Thu, Jan 21 at 1:28pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Limited on practice report

    The Buccaneers listed Jones as a limited participant on Wednesday's estimated practice report with finger and calf injuries.

    Analysis: Jones was nursing a quadriceps injury heading into last weekend's divisional-round game in New Orleans, but he ultimately suited up and rushed 13 times for 62 yards in the Buccaneers' win. Though he's now contending with new injuries coming out of that contest, the running back may just have been limited in practice for maintenance purposes ahead of Sunday's NFC Championship Game against the Packers.

    Published: Wed, Jan 20 at 2:24pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Solid in return to action

    Jones (quadriceps) rushed 13 times for 62 yards and failed to bring in his only target during the Buccaneers' 30-20 divisional-round win over the Saints on Sunday.

    Analysis: Eight days after having to sit out the wild-card win against Washington due to a quadriceps contusion suffered in pregame warmups, Jones was back on the field and filling a robust role in the ground attack. However, he worked in tandem with Leonard Fournette, who served as the true lead back with 17 carries and another five touches in the passing game. Nevertheless, Jones was actually the more efficient of the two with 4.8 yards per rush, and given the extreme cold expected at Lambeau Field for…read more

    Published: Sun, Jan 17 at 7:44pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Available Sunday

    Jones (quadriceps) is listed as active for Sunday's divisional-round game against New Orleans.

    Analysis: Despite being inactive in the wild-card round at Washington, Jones didn't play after tweaking his quadriceps in pregame warmups. He proceeded to log limited sessions Thursday and Friday, setting himself up to return to the field this weekend. It remains to be seen how the backfield reps will be allotted between Jones, Leonard Fournette and LeSean McCoy with Ke'Shawn Vaughn a healthy scratch.

    Published: Sun, Jan 17 at 2:18pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • May be game-time call Sunday

    Jones (quadriceps), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's divisional-round game in New Orleans, is being treated as a game-day decision, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Jones was active for last weekend's win over Washington in the wild-card round, but he didn't play any snaps in the contest after tweaking his quad in pregame warmups. Expect reporters on the scene in New Orleans to keep a closer eye on Jones during warmups ahead of Sunday's 6:40 p.m. ET kickoff to get a better sense of his availability, but at this stage, Rapoport relays that the running back has a "good shot" to play. Though listed as questionable, Jones seemingly improved his odds of gaining…read more

    Published: Sun, Jan 17 at 6:42am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Officially listed as questionable

    Jones (quad/finger) is listed as questionable for Sunday's divisional-round playoff game against New Orleans after logging limited practices Thursday and Friday, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Coach Bruce Arians previously noted that Jones will be a game-time decision for the contest, while relaying Friday that regardless of whether Jones ends up playing Sunday, Leonard Fournette -- who turned in a strong performance in the team's wild-card win over Washington this past Saturday -- will get the start at running back. That said, Arians added that if Jones is "full-speed" by game-time, he'd get "his normal reps."

    Published: Fri, Jan 15 at 1:27pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Game-day call

    Coach Bruce Arians noted Friday that Jones (quad) will be a game-time decision for Sunday's divisional-round playoff game at New Orleans, Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

    Analysis: With that in mind, Jones seems like to be officially listed as questionable for the contest. Either way, however, Leonard Fournette will be the Buccaneers' starting running back Sunday following his strong performance in the team's wild-card win over Washington this past Saturday.

    Published: Fri, Jan 15 at 10:02am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Limited in return to practice

    Jones (quad/finger) was a limited practice participant Thursday, Luke Johnson of The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports.

    Analysis: Given what happened last week -- when he was active but didn't play any snaps -- fantasy managers will feel a whole lot better if Jones is able to upgrade to full participation Friday. Barring that development, he appears to be headed for a 'questionable' designation ahead of the Bucs' playoff matchup with New Orleans on Sunday. The team has Leonard Fournette on hand to fill in as the lead runner against a stout New Orleans run defense if Jones is limited or out this weekend.

    Published: Thu, Jan 14 at 1:28pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Returns to practice

    Jones (quadriceps) is practicing Thursday, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Between thumb surgery, a stint on the COVID-19 list and now a quad injury, Jones has played in just one game since Week 14. He was technically active for the wild-card win over Washington, but the Bucs decided he wasn't healthy enough to actually play. After missing practice Wednesday, the running back returned to the field Thursday morning, hoping to prove his health before Sunday's game in New Orleans. If Jones can't go, Leonard Fournette will step up to the lead role again.

    Published: Thu, Jan 14 at 9:01am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Misses Wednesday's practice

    Jones (quadriceps) didn't practice Wednesday.

    Analysis: Jones was active ahead of last week's wild-card win over Washington, but he didn't take any snaps after suffering an apparent setback in pregame warmups. Though he'll have two more chances to resume practicing before the Buccaneers rule on his status for Sunday's divisional-round game at New Orleans, Jones' workload could be difficult to predict unless head coach Bruce Arians offers clarity on his plans for the 23-year-old. While Jones was on the sideline lat week, Leonard Fournette performed…read more

    Published: Wed, Jan 13 at 1:30pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Not seen at practice

    Jones (quadriceps) didn't participate in the media-access portion of Wednesday's practice, Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

    Analysis: Though he was active for Tampa Bay's win over Washington in the wild-card round, Jones didn't actually take any snaps in the game. His absence Wednesday isn't a great sign, but he still has two more chances to get on the practice field before the end of the week. If Jones is out or limited again, Leonard Fournette would be a clear favorite to lead the Tampa backfield Sunday in New Orleans.

    Published: Wed, Jan 13 at 8:53am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Status up in air for Saints game

    Coach Bruce Arians said Monday that the availability of Jones (quadriceps) is "a wait-and-see situation," Sara Walsh of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Arians said that Jones felt healthier last Thursday and Friday, but a setback related to soreness Saturday caused him to miss the Buccaneers' wild-card win over Washington, despite being active, per James Palmer of NFL Network. Leonard Fournette operated as Tampa Bay's clear top back versus the Football Team with Jones sidelined, while Ke'Shawn Vaughn handled change-of-pace duties.

    Published: Mon, Jan 11 at 9:27am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Dealing with quad contusion

    Ian Rapoport of NFL Network indicates that a quad issue Jones practiced through this past week flared up before Saturday's playoff win over Washington.

    Analysis: Per the report, Jones' quad contusion "swelled on him" and the running back had difficulty getting loose as game-time approached. Jones' status is therefore worth monitoring as the Bucs prepare for their next postseason contest. With Jones not recording any snaps Saturday, Leonard Fournette led the team's rushing attack, while Ke'Shawn Vaughn worked in a reserve/change-of-pace role.

    Published: Sun, Jan 10 at 9:27am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Injury occurred before game

    Jones suffered a quad injury during pregame warmups ahead of Saturday's wild-card matchup against Washington, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: Jones never did take the field for Saturday's wild-card game. Leonard Fournette figures to command the starter's workload while rookie Ke'Shawn Vaughn rotates in as a change-of-pace back.

    Published: Sat, Jan 9 at 6:03pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Leaves with quad injury

    Jones was forced out of Saturday's wild-card game against Washington with a quad injury, Carmen Vitali of the Buccaneers' official site reports.

    Analysis: Jones suffered the injury in the first quarter before receiving his first touch. Unless he can return, Leonard Fournette and Ke'Shawn Vaughn are the only remaining running backs for Tampa Bay.

    Published: Sat, Jan 9 at 5:49pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Gets into end zone in return

    Jones rushed 12 times for 78 yards and a touchdown in the Buccaneers' 44-27 win over the Falcons on Sunday.

    Analysis: Making his return from a two-game absence as a result of a finger injury and stint on the reserve/COVID-19 list, Jones was efficient with his modest number of opportunities. The third-year back's long run of the day went for just 16 yards, so he consistently gained positive yardage versus a Falcons defense that had been stingy against the run all season. Jones' lack of passing game work was a disappointment, but now that he garnered some game action prior to the end of the regular season, the…read more

    Published: Sun, Jan 3 at 3:20pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • May be headed for big workload

    Head coach Bruce Arians said he wants to give Jones "a ton of work" in Sunday's game against the Falcons, Carmen Vitali of the Buccaneers' official website reports.

    Analysis: Jones had finger surgery after Tampa's Week 14 contest and was placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list shortly thereafter. He's now set to return from a two-game absence, though his pass-catching ability could be impacted by a brace that covers two fingers on his left hand, according to Scott Smith of the Buccaneers' official site. Regardless, Jones is poised to step back in as the Bucs' lead runner, needing exactly 100 rushing yards to reach 1,000 for the season.

    Published: Fri, Jan 1 at 9:37am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Puts in full practice Thursday

    Jones (finger) practiced fully Thursday.

    Analysis: After surgery on his left pinky finger and a two-week stay on the reserve/COVID-19 list, Jones has got up to speed quickly, increasing his activity enough to go from limited Wednesday to uncapped in drills one day later. Backup running back Leonard Fournette (abdomen) remained limited Thursday, but he may not be a threat to Jones' playing time after being a healthy scratch in his last appearance Week 14. In his 13 outings this season, Jones is averaging 16 touches for 81.9 yards from scrimmage…read more

    Published: Thu, Dec 31 at 12:59pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Limited in return to practice

    Jones (finger) was a limited practice participant Wednesday.

    Analysis: Per Jenna Laine of ESPN.com, head coach Bruce Arians said that Jones "caught the ball OK" in his return from a two-week stay on the reserve/COVID-19 list. Jones' surgically-repaired left pinkie finger still seems to be bothering him, which isn't shocking given that he's two weeks removed from a procedure to insert a pin in the appendage. Fellow running back Leonard Fournette also was limited by an abdominal issue, so the state of Tampa Bay's backfield will be one to monitor as this weekend's…read more

    Published: Wed, Dec 30 at 1:06pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Returns to practice

    Head coach Bruce Arians said Jones (finger) "looked good" while catching passes and taking part in other drills during Wednesday's practice, Scott Smith of the Buccaneers' official site reports.

    Analysis: While he returns from the team after two weeks on the reserve/COVID-19 list, Jones is also looking to prove that his surgically repaired left finger isn't a hindrance. It'll be interesting to see if he's listed as a full participant on Wednesday's practice report, which would clear the way for Jones to reclaim his usual No. 1 role out of the Tampa Bay backfield Sunday against the Falcons.

    Published: Wed, Dec 30 at 10:24am by Rotowire.com
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  • Taken off COVID-19 list

    The Buccaneers activated Jones (finger) from the reserve/COVID-19 list Tuesday, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Jones emerged from a Week 14 win against the Vikings with a broken left pinky finger. He underwent surgery on Dec. 15 to place a pin in the appendage, and one day later the Bucs placed him on the COVID-19 list. The team never revealed whether or not Jones tested positive for the virus, but after two weeks away from the team he's poised to suit up for Sunday's regular-season finale against the Falcons. After splitting the backfield touches between Ke'Shawn Vaughn (18), Leonard Fournette (14) and…read more

    Published: Tue, Dec 29 at 2:13pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Hopeful for Week 17

    Arians said Monday that he's "hopeful" Jones (finger) will come off the reserve/COVID-19 list and suit up against the Falcons in Week 17, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Jones will have to clear all necessary protocols relating to COVID-19 before returning to Tampa Bay's facilities, at which point he'll be able to test out his fractured left pinky finger. As such, Jones will have to overcome a number of hurdles before garnering full clearance, but it appears as though he's trending toward a Week 17 return. Arians said he hopes to get the second-year running back "prepared for (the) playoffs."

    Published: Mon, Dec 28 at 9:32am by Rotowire.com
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  • Officially out for Week 16

    Head coach Bruce Arians confirmed Thursday that Jones (finger, reserve/COVID-19 list) won't play in the Buccaneers' Week 16 game against the Lions, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Jones hasn't practiced since undergoing surgery Dec. 15 to repair a fractured left pinkie finger. He was then placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list a day later, and at this point, it's uncertain how close he might be to clearing all health-related protocols to rejoin the Buccaneers. Tampa Bay should provide another update on Jones' status early next week, but for now, the team will roll with Leonard Fournette as its lead back for a second straight game, with LeSean McCoy and Ke'Shawn Vaughn…read more

    Published: Thu, Dec 24 at 9:34am by Rotowire.com
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  • Deemed unlikely for Week 16

    Buccaneers head coach Bruce Arians said Tuesday that he views Jones (finger) as doubtful to return from the reserve/COVID-19 list in advance of the team's Week 16 game in Detroit, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Prior to landing on the list Dec. 16, Jones' playing status was in question after he required surgery a day before that to address a fractured pinkie finger on his left hand. Arians didn't clarify where exactly Jones stands as he looks to clear the COVID-19 protocol, but the running back seemingly doesn't have much hope of receiving the green light for Saturday's game in Detroit. If that's the case, Leonard Fournette would likely be in store for another turn as Tampa Bay's lead back.

    Published: Tue, Dec 22 at 1:17pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Confirmed unavailable Week 15

    Jones (finger) remains on the reserve/COVID-19 list and will not be active for Sunday's matchup against the Falcons, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Jones underwent surgery to repair his fractured pinkie finger Tuesday, but there seemed a chance he could face Atlanta if capable of shouldering late-week practice reps. A subsequent Wednesday shift to the reserve/COVID-19 list promptly changed the outlook, and it's now confirmed the 23-year-old will miss his first game of 2020. With Tampa Bay proceeding devoid of the NFL's fourth-leading rusher for Sunday's NFC South clash, Leonard Fournette is expected to step into the primary running back…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 20 at 8:43am by Rotowire.com
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  • Unlikely to play

    Jones (finger) isn't expected to play in Sunday's game against the Falcons, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Despite undergoing surgery Tuesday on his fractured left pinkie finger, Jones might have been in good shape to play this week, but he now faces a second obstacle to overcome after he was placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list Wednesday. Coach Bruce Arians said he's preparing Leonard Fournette for the Week 15 start, with LeSean McCoy, Ke'Shawn Vaughn and Kenjon Barner on hand as the other backfield options. After Sunday, the Bucs will be working on an abbreviated schedule Week 16 as they prepare…read more

    Published: Fri, Dec 18 at 11:59am by Rotowire.com
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  • Placed on COVID list

    The Buccaneers placed Jones (finger) on the reserve/COVID-19 list Wednesday, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Jones' availability for Week 15 was already in question after he underwent finger surgery Tuesday, and he'll now need to overcome that injury in addition to clearing all necessary COVID-19 protocols before suiting up Sunday against the Falcons. His placement on the reserve/COVID-19 list doesn't necessarily mean that Jones tested positive for the virus, as he may have just been a close contact of someone who did. In any case, it's looking increasingly likely that some combination of Leonard…read more

    Published: Wed, Dec 16 at 1:06pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Absent from practice

    Jones (finger) won't practice Wednesday, Adam Caplan of SiriusXM Radio reports.

    Analysis: Jones had surgery Tuesday to put a pin into his fractured pinkie, so his absence from practice a day later comes as little surprise. Teammate Chris Godwin missed one game after a similar procedure earlier this season, and while Jones' status for Sunday's trip to Atlanta has yet to be determined, the team would ideally want to see the running back practice in some capacity before clearing him for game action. If Jones sits out Sunday, Tampa Bay's backfield would consist of some combination of…read more

    Published: Wed, Dec 16 at 12:59pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Undergoing surgery on finger

    Jones (finger) will undergo surgery Tuesday to repair his broken left pinkie finger, Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

    Analysis: Buccaneers head coach Bruce Arians said Monday that the team feared Jones fractured his pinkie in the win over the Vikings, and the injury has now been confirmed. Jones will have a pin placed in the injured finger in a procedure that Stroud reports is similar to what teammate Chris Godwin underwent earlier this year. Godwin ended up missing one game on account of the surgery, but it's unclear whether Jones' availability for Sunday's game against the Falcons will be affected by his own procedure.

    Published: Tue, Dec 15 at 7:55am by Rotowire.com
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  • May have broken finger

    Coach Bruce Arians said Monday that Jones may have fractured his pinky during Sunday's win over the Vikings, Scott Smith of the Buccaneers' official site reports.

    Analysis: The Buccaneers are still awaiting confirmation on the severity of Jones' injury, but it sounds like he played through the issue Sunday while amassing 80 yards and a touchdown on 18 carries. Jones could have to have a pin inserted if he's indeed suffered a fractured finger, but it doesn't appear that he's in any serious danger of missing time.

    Published: Mon, Dec 14 at 11:05am by Rotowire.com
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  • Solid output in win

    Jones rushed 18 times for 80 yards and a touchdown and brought in one of two targets for four yards in the Buccaneers' 26-14 win over the Vikings on Sunday.

    Analysis: With Leonard Fournette a healthy scratch, Jones enjoyed a clear lead-back workload and was productive with it, contributing his sixth rushing touchdown of the campaign late in the first half to help round out a solid fantasy afternoon. The carry tally was the highest for Jones since Week 10 against the Panthers and helped Tom Brady pick his spots through the air against a Minnesota defense that played relatively well overall. While Jones' 19 touches Sunday are mildly encouraging, fantasy…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 13 at 2:21pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Shines with pair of big plays

    Jones rushed nine times for 66 yards and secured one of two targets for a 37-yard touchdown in the Buccaneers' 27-24 loss to the Chiefs on Sunday.

    Analysis: Jones' fantasy day was made by a 30-yard-plus play apiece on the ground and through the air. The latter resulted in the Buccaneers' first touchdown of the afternoon and qualified as the first receiving score of Jones' career. The third-year back's rushing tally was a welcome boost from the 24 yards he'd mustered in Week 11 against the Rams, and while his overall workload Sunday still left plenty to be desired, Jones' fantasy managers will hope for a game script conducive to more volume in a…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 29 at 5:30pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Stymied Monday night

    Jones rushed 10 times for 24 yards in Monday night's 27-24 loss to the Rams. He also failed to haul in his lone target.

    Analysis: Jones' rollercoaster season continued Monday, as he followed his career-best rushing total in Week 10 with his lowest yards per carry in a game this season. In his defense, Jones faced a tough matchup against a smothering Rams front seven, but he nonetheless underwhelmed with his production. To make matters worse, Leonard Fournette vultured a two-yard rushing touchdown during the second quarter, but with 26 scrimmage yards on eight touches and three drops in the passing game, Fournette didn't…read more

    Published: Mon, Nov 23 at 9:05pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Explodes for career-best day

    Jones rushed 23 times for 192 yards and a touchdown while also securing one of two targets for six yards in the Buccaneers' 46-23 win over the Panthers on Sunday. He also lost a fumble.

    Analysis: The start of Jones' day certainly wasn't a harbinger of what was to come, as he lost the ball at his own 32-yard line to short-circuit the Buccaneers' first drive after just two plays. Nevertheless, the third-year back would go on to atone for his mistake, with the highlight of his afternoon coming on a 98-yard touchdown run off left guard in the third quarter to extend Tampa Bay's lead to 26-17 at the time. Jones also consistently gained chunk yards as the game wore on, leading to a…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 15 at 1:43pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Leads team with three carries

    Jones rushed three times for nine yards and caught three passes (four targets) for nine yards in Sunday's 38-3 loss to New Orleans.

    Analysis: Jones' three carries actually led all Buccaneers rushers (Leonard Fournette received the only other carry) after the team shifted to throwing on every down after falling behind big early. The 23-year-old now has two disappointing performances in a row, although we can pretty much throw this contest out completely based on the game script. Fournette had seen his usage rise in the two weeks prior to Sunday's stinker, so a two-back system appears to be developing in Tampa Bay. Jones is still the…read more

    Published: Mon, Nov 9 at 12:03am by Rotowire.com
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  • Quiet against Giants

    Jones rushed seven times for 23 yards and caught all four of his targets for 23 yards in Monday night's 25-23 win over the Giants. He also lost a fumble during the first half.

    Analysis: Jones entered Monday's contest on the back of an outstanding October, but a fumble on his own 15-yard line on the Buccaneers' second offensive drive quickly put a damper on his outing. With Jones also struggling to get much going on the ground, Leonard Fournette led Tampa Bay with 15 carries for 52 yards and caught three passes for 19 yards as well. That involvement obviously wasn't ideal for Jones' stock, but considering his production in the four games prior, it's reasonable to expect Jones…read more

    Published: Mon, Nov 2 at 8:50pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Saves fantasy day with TD

    Jones rushed 13 times for 34 yards and a touchdown and brought in one of two targets for two yards in the Buccaneers' 45-20 win over the Raiders on Sunday.

    Analysis: Jones came into the contest riding the wave of three consecutive 100-yard rushing efforts, and although he fell considerably short of the century mark Sunday, he still managed to salvage the day for fantasy managers via a one-yard run with 6:40 remaining in the contest. However, it's worth noting the returning Leonard Fournette (ankle) made a significant impact on Jones' workload Sunday, with the former Jaguar logging just two fewer carries and outpacing Jones in the passing game by five…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 25 at 6:03pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Huge day against Packers

    Jones carried the ball 23 times for 113 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 38-10 win over the Packers. He also caught both of his targets for eight yards.

    Analysis: With the Bucs' defense surprisingly shutting down Aaron Rodgers, Jones ended up being the offensive star of the afternoon as he topped the century mark in rushing yards for the third straight game. Even if Leonard Fournette (ankle) is healthy enough to suit up in Week 7 on the road against the Raiders, it's hard to imagine Jones' role shrinking significantly given his current form.

    Published: Sun, Oct 18 at 7:59pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Less competition for carries

    Jones will have less competition for carries in Sunday's Week 6 tilt against the Packers with Leonard Fournette (ankle) inactive for the contest.

    Analysis: Jones logged 20 and 17 carries in Weeks 4 and 5, respectively, with Fournette limited to one snap over that span, and he could be in for a similar or even greater workload Sunday. It's arguably in the Buccaneers' best interest to keep Aaron Rodgers, Aaron Jones and the returning Davante Adams off the field as much as possible, so Ronald Jones could see plenty of work against a Packers run defense that's allowed 128.0 rushing yards per road contest.

    Published: Sun, Oct 18 at 1:26pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Excels again in true lead-back role

    Jones rushed 17 times for 106 yards and brought in three of five targets for 19 yards in the Buccaneers' 20-19 loss to the Bears on Thursday.

    Analysis: Jones had the backfield all to himself Thursday, as Leonard Fournette (ankle) was surprisingly active but didn't log a carry, nor did rookie Ke'Shawn Vaughn before leaving the game just before halftime with a chest injury. Jones put forth an efficient night, one where he ripped off a game-long 37-yard run and still averaged a solid 4.3 yards per rush on his other 16 carries. The USC product has now eclipsed the 100-yard mark twice in five days, and his relatively modest but steady involvement…read more

    Published: Thu, Oct 8 at 9:01pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Goes over 100-yard mark in win

    Jones rushed 20 times for 111 yards and brought in six of nine targets for 17 yards in the Buccaneers' 38-31 win over the Chargers on Sunday.

    Analysis: The third-year back took on clear lead-back duties with Leonard Fournette (ankle) out of action Sunday and LeSean McCoy ultimately exiting early with an ankle issue of his own. The extra responsibility ultimately equated to a productive fantasy day for Jones, who logged a career-high number of targets in the short passing game. The USC product could have a similar level of usage on the ground in a Thursday night matchup against the Bears, as Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports that Fournette "has a…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 4 at 2:19pm by Rotowire.com
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  • More volume on tap

    Jones won't have to contend with Leonard Fournette (ankle) for reps during Sunday's game against the Chargers, Scott Smith of the Buccaneers' official site reports.

    Analysis: Through three games, Fournette combined for 31 touches, including seven catches, which instead will filter down to Jones and LeSean McCoy. Jones himself has been afforded 43 touches, while McCoy has nine to his name. Overall, Jones is averaging just 3.8 yards per carry and has hauled in six of nine passes, but the added volume could help him approach 100 total yards for the first time this season.

    Published: Fri, Oct 2 at 1:47pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Leads backfield in Week 3 win

    Jones rushed 13 times for 53 yards and brought in two of four targets for 20 yards in the Buccaneers' 28-10 win over the Broncos.

    Analysis: A week after Leonard Fournette took center stage and went over the 100-yard mark on the ground, Jones served as the clear lead back, outpacing his teammate by six carries and six touches overall. There was nothing spectacular about Jones' day -- he had a long run of 13 yards on his way to 4.1 yards per rush -- but the USC product encouragingly enjoyed a solid presence in the passing game as well. Through three games, Jones is now averaging 12.1 carries and three targets per contest, numbers…read more

    Published: Sun, Sep 27 at 5:23pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Outshined by backfield mate Week 2

    Jones rushed seven times for 23 yards and a touchdown and brought in both of his targets for four yards in the Buccaneers' 31-17 win over the Panthers on Sunday.

    Analysis: Jones was teed up for a potentially fruitful fantasy day against the Panthers' porous run defense, and accordingly, he opened the scoring with a seven-yard touchdown run with 5:42 remaining in the first quarter. However, the third-year back then saw coach Bruce Arians afford Jones' backfield mate Leonard Fournette plenty of work, leading to the latter posting a 12-103-2 line on the afternoon. Despite Arians' preseason proclamation that Jones was the clear lead back, there was still a certain…read more

    Published: Sun, Sep 20 at 3:38pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Dominates RB touches in Week 1

    Jones carried the ball 17 times for 66 yards and caught two of three targets for 16 yards in Sunday's 34-23 loss to the Saints.

    Analysis: While his overall production wasn't impressive, the key numbers for Jones might have been seven and 19, the combined touches and yards produced by Leonard Fournette and LeSean McCoy. Fournette could grow into a bigger role as he becomes more familiar with the Bucs' playbook, but if Jones maintains his hold on the No. 1 job, better days will be ahead for the third-year back -- perhaps as soon as Week 2 against a Panthers defense that got gashed for 139 scrimmage yards and three TDs by Josh…read more

    Published: Sun, Sep 13 at 5:38pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Backfield mate set for 'solid' role

    Jones' backfield mate Leonard Fournette is set for a "solid" Week 1 role against the Saints, Scott Smith of the team's official site reports.

    Analysis: Coach Bruce Arians made mention of what a quick study Fournette has proven to be with respect to the playbook since arriving last week, leading him to proclaim the former Jaguar is an important component of the Week 1 gameplan against the Saints. However, Jones is still fully expected to start and outpace his new teammate in carries, although his total workload will naturally be somewhere below what it would have been without Fournette's presence. The fact Arians also noted Fournette's…read more

    Published: Wed, Sep 9 at 6:30pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Atop first depth chart

    Jones is listed as the No. 1 running back in the first edition of the Buccaneers' regular-season depth chart released Monday, Scott Smith of the team's official site reports.

    Analysis: The third-year back will therefore start the new season in the same slotting in which he finished 2019, but the competition around him has been upgraded significantly. Gone is the willing but often pedestrian Peyton Barber -- Jones' main rival for carries last season -- and a pair of ultra-talented assets in Leonard Fournette and LeSean McCoy are now in the fold and slated to see touches in their own right. While McCoy is likely to primarily handle occasional change-of-pace duty and third-down…read more

    Published: Mon, Sep 7 at 10:11pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Still the starter?

    Coach Bruce Arians said Jones is still "our guy" in the Tampa Bay backfield, suggesting the team added Leonard Fournette to provide depth at a position where "nicks and bruises can really add up," Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: The words and actions don't really align, as the team first brought in Ke'Shawn Vaughn and LeSean McCoy to compete with Jones during the offseason, and now they're adding Fournette on a one-year, $2 million contract that can go up to $3.5 million with incentives (per Ian Rapoport of NFL Network). Arians claims "nothing has changed" for Jones, but it's pretty clear the Tampa backfield will be messy, with no guarantee Fournette won't eventually emerge with the lead role. What's more, the team is…read more

    Published: Thu, Sep 3 at 8:12am by Rotowire.com
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  • Joined by Fournette in backfield

    Jones is facing additional backfield competition from Leonard Fournette, who joined the Buccaneers on a one-year contract Wednesday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: Jones has put together a strong offseason and appeared to have earned coach Bruce Arians' confidence, but the Buccaneers nonetheless felt it necessary to pursue Fournette once he hit free agency. Arians commented earlier Wednesday that Jones "looks like he can be an all-around back," per Greg Auman of The Athletic, but Fournette's past production (two of three seasons with 1,000-plus rushing yards) surpasses the career-best 724 rushing yards that Jones churned out in 2019. With veteran LeSean…read more

    Published: Wed, Sep 2 at 6:19pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Earns coach's confidence

    Coach Bruce Arians said Wednesday Jones had one bad day of drops but otherwise showcased improved hands and pass blocking throughout training camp, Scott Smith of the Buccaneers' official site reports.

    Analysis: The drop-filled practice got a lot of attention, though things simmered down once it was reported that the Bucs' other running backs also were having issues in the passing game. Jones appears to have cleaned things up over the past couple weeks, with Arians noting that the third-year pro "looks like he can be an all-around back," per Greg Auman of The Athletic. If nothing else, Jones should enter Week 1 as the starter and lead runner, opening his season with a road matchup against a Saints…read more

    Published: Wed, Sep 2 at 7:40am by Rotowire.com
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  • Back at practice

    Jones (ankle) is taking part in Sunday's practice, donning full pads in the session, Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

    Analysis: Jones' presence on the field suggests the left ankle sprain he picked up in Friday's scrimmage was only a minor concern. Assuming he enters the regular season healthy, Jones should be slated to start for the Buccaneers after coach Bruce Arians identified the 23-year-old as the team's "main guy" in the backfield in 2020.

    Published: Sun, Aug 30 at 6:23am by Rotowire.com
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  • Banged up in practice

    Jones hurt his left foot during Friday's practice, but coach Bruce Arians doesn't think it's anything serious, Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

    Analysis: James Palmer of NFL Network reports that Jones was walking around after practice, albeit with ice and a wrap over his foot. None of the initial reports hint at a major issue, but we'll start to take notice if Jones is held out of practice over the weekend and into the upcoming week. Any missed time would free up more first-team reps for LeSean McCoy or Ke'Shawn Vaughn.

    Published: Fri, Aug 28 at 8:02am by Rotowire.com
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  • Struggling with drops

    Jones and the other Bucs running backs continued to struggle with drops Monday morning, Scott Smith of the team's official site reports.

    Analysis: Coach Bruce Arians commented on the backfield pass-catching struggles after Sunday's practice, in which Jones was guilty of at least two drops, per Rick Stroud of The Tampa Bay Times. Smith notes that Jones had an impressive catch in 1-on-1 drills Monday morning, but the general pattern coming from Bucs camp suggests his receiving work has been subpar. It sounds like the other Tampa Bay running backs haven't been much better, with the possible exception of passing-down specialist Dare…read more

    Published: Mon, Aug 24 at 6:32am by Rotowire.com
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  • Early camp standout

    Jones has impressed as both a runner and receiver in early training camp practices, Carmen Vitali of the Buccaneers' official site reports.

    Analysis: The third-year pro was recently anointed as the clear-cut lead back by coach Bruce Arians, but Jones is doing anything but resting on his laurels. Vitali had previously reported Jones, who spent plenty of time this offseason working on his receiving skills, looked like he had much surer hands while hauling in some throws from Brady in Sunday's no-contact session, and the USC product also ripped off a long run after breaking free up the middle in Monday's padded practice. Jones naturally won't…read more

    Published: Mon, Aug 17 at 2:26pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Getting receiving tips from Brady

    Jones, who entered training camp primed for the lead role in the Buccaneers' remade backfield, has been getting early advice from Tom Brady on pass-catching technique out of the backfield, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Given Brady's extensive track record of success throwing to his backs, Jones is undoubtedly aware of how important it will be for him to take the next step as a receiver this season. To that end, the third-year back has already been absorbing knowledge from Brady, who Jones says has advised him to run his routes low to the ground and "run my routes like I've already got the ball." The USC product is looking to elevate his game another notch as a runner as well after rushing for 724 yards and…read more

    Published: Mon, Aug 10 at 10:05am by Rotowire.com
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  • Primed for lead role

    Coach Bruce Arians said Wednesday that Jones will be the "main guy" in the Tampa Bay backfield, Scott Smith of the Buccaneers' official site reports.

    Analysis: The competition for carries consists of rookie third-round pick Ke'Shawn Vaughn and 32-year-old LeSean McCoy. The Bucs apparently expect Jones to hold both of them off for the lead role, but the team could still feature a committee backfield of sorts, potentially subbing in Vaughn or McCoy for some carries and Dare Ogunbowale or Raymond Calais in passing-down situations. Jones packed on some weight this offseason to prepare for a larger workload, reportedly getting up to around 225 pounds.

    Published: Wed, Aug 5 at 11:12am by Rotowire.com
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  • Looking good for lead job

    Jones likely will enter Week 1 as a starter, according to ESPN.com's Jenna Laine.

    Analysis: Rookie third-round pick Ke'Shawn Vaughn should still be in the mix for carries, but his shot at the lead role right out of the gate took a big hit after the NFL canceled offseason programs and preseason games. Jones has been preparing for the possibility of a much larger workload in his third NFL season, focusing on his pass-catching skills and bulking up to around 225 pounds. While he should have the initial advantage, Jones could lose ground in a hurry if he fails to impress early in the…read more

    Published: Thu, Jul 23 at 8:19am by Rotowire.com
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  • Working diligently on receiving

    Jones is up to 225 pounds and has been working diligently with trainer Luke Neal on his pass catching this offseason, Luke Easterling of SI.com reports.

    Analysis: The third-year back has some extra motivation in the form of the Buccaneers' selection of Vanderbilt product Ke'Shawn Vaughn in the third round of April's draft, with the latter certainly a threat to put a dent into Jones' workload. The projected competition aside, Jones was likely to focus on improving his pass-catching acumen this offseason anyhow, considering his limitations in that area last season often kept him off the field on third downs in favor of Dare Ogunbowale. Neal recently posted…read more

    Published: Wed, May 13 at 11:29pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Gets competition in draft

    Jones will have competition for carries in the form of rookie Ke'Shawn Vaughn, whom the Buccaneers selected in the third round (76th overall pick) Friday night.

    Analysis: Vaughn wrapped up his college career with back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons at Vanderbilt, and though he was clearly a tier below the top prospects at his position in this year's draft, he has the talent to push Jones and slide into the role vacated by the departed Peyton Barber. Jones has been the subject of praise on more than one occasion from general manager Jason Licht and head coach Bruce Arians this offseason, and the selection of Vaughn isn't a referendum on the USC product's standing…read more

    Published: Fri, Apr 24 at 11:16pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Talked up by team brass

    Both GM Jason Licht and head coach Bruce Arians remain high on Jones' upside, although that won't preclude them from focusing on the running back position in the upcoming draft, Carmen Vitali of the team's official site reports.

    Analysis: Licht was effusive in his praise of Jones during a Thursday conference call with reporters, noting the team thinks the third-year back "hasn't even scratched the surface of what he can be." That type of sentiment would have been virtually inconceivable with respect to Jones at this time last year, as the USC product was coming off an utterly forgettable rookie season in which he rushed for just 44 yards at a minuscule 1.9 yards per carry. However, Jones made significant strides in 2019,…read more

    Published: Fri, Apr 10 at 10:16pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Getting competition soon?

    Coach Bruce Arians said the Bucs would "love to have a pass-catching back" to complement Jones in the backfield, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: This might be taken as a hint that the Bucs are comfortable with Jones as their lead runner, but it also could be interpreted as a critique of his blocking and receiving skills. The offseason priorities in Tampa Bay were to add Tom Brady and re-sign key players in the defensive front seven, while RB Peyton Barber and WR Breshad Perriman were permitted to leave without much of a challenge. The backfield depth chart now looks paper-thin behind Jones, featuring Dare Ogunbowale, T.J. Logan (thumb)…read more

    Published: Fri, Mar 27 at 11:27am by Rotowire.com
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  • Raises expectations

    General manager Jason Licht said the Buccaneers expect Jones to be even better in 2020, Scott Smith of the Buccaneers' official site reports.

    Analysis: While far from spectacular this past season, Jones undoubtedly took a big step forward from his washout rookie campaign, leading the Tampa backfield in rushing yards (724), yards per carry (4.2), receiving yards (309) and yards per target (7.7). There's potential for a larger workload with Peyton Barber scheduled to become a free agent on the heels of an underwhelming season, but it won't come as any surprise if the Bucs replace the veteran with an early draft pick or superior free agent. Jones…read more

    Published: Tue, Feb 25 at 1:23pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Best game of season in finale

    Jones rushed 11 times for 106 yards and secured both of his targets for 10 yards in the Buccaneers' 28-22 overtime loss to the Falcons on Sunday. He also committed two fumbles, losing one.

    Analysis: Jones' pair of fumbles were naturally a blemish, but he did help make up for it with a career-high rushing yardage total that was partly comprised of a 33-yard run. It was a positive finish to the season for Jones, who posted 183 total rushing yards over his last pair of games and was exponentially better than during an utterly forgettable 2018 rookie campaign. Head coach Bruce Arians never quite committed fully to either Jones or backfield mate Peyton Barber as a feature back this season,…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 29 at 2:30pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Strong first half in loss

    Jones rushed 14 times for 77 yards and a touchdown while adding three catches for 32 yards on four targets in Saturday's 23-20 loss to Houston.

    Analysis: With quarterback Jameis Winston struggling to the tune of three first-half interceptions, the Buccaneers relied on the ground game to get them back in it. Jones turned seven first-half carries into 69 yards and a touchdown, scoring from four yards out right at the two-minute warning. The 22-year-old running back went quiet after halftime but has clearly established himself as the lead back over Peyton Barber, who rushed five times for 13 yards and lost a fumble. Locked in as the top option in…read more

    Published: Sat, Dec 21 at 2:01pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Another quiet day in win

    Jones rushed 11 times for 23 yards and brought in one of three targets for 26 yards in the Buccaneers' 38-17 win over the Lions on Sunday.

    Analysis: Jones showed off his playmaking ability on his one reception, but his work on the ground was once again significantly underwhelming. The second-year back has rushed for 36 yards or fewer in three straight games, and he's only eclipsed the 50-yard mark on the ground on five occasions this season. Jones and Peyton Barber also continue in a nearly even time split in the backfield, which leaves Tampa's ground game a virtual stay-away situation for fantasy title games in Week 16.

    Published: Sun, Dec 15 at 9:05pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Underwhelming in Week 14 win

    Jones rushed 11 times for 36 yards and brought in four of five targets for 23 yards in the Buccaneers' 38-35 win over the Colts on Sunday.

    Analysis: Jones and backfield mate Peyton Barber each logged 11 carries, keeping the Buccaneers' backfield situation as confusing as ever in the thick of the fantasy postseason. Jones was solid as a receiver, although he couldn't do much with what were mostly dump-off targets. The second-year back heads into a Week 15 interconference clash with the porous Lions defense having rushed for 51 yards or fewer in five straight games, but having seen multiple targets in six of his last seven contests overall.

    Published: Sun, Dec 8 at 7:45pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Retains starting job

    Coach Bruce Arians said Wednesday that Jones is still the Buccaneers' starting running back, Eduardo A. Encina of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

    Analysis: Arians' vote of confidence comes after Jones was benched during the third quarter of the Week 13 win over the Jaguars after the running back failed to pick up a blitz. Though Jones retains the top spot on the depth chart, the task of predicting whether he or Peyton Barber will receive the bulk of carries in a given week has proven confounding for fantasy managers all season. The 2018 second-round pick could realistically garner a more sizable workload Sunday versus the Colts, but his ability to…read more

    Published: Wed, Dec 4 at 12:44pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Forgotten man down stretch

    Jones rushed just six times for eight yards in the Buccaneers' 28-11 win over the Jaguars on Sunday.

    Analysis: Jones ended up 11 carries behind backfield Peyton Barber in yet another confounding week of running back usage courtesy of coach Bruce Arians. The Buccaneers' head man explained in his postgame press conference that the disparity in the division of labor was due both to Barber finding success more consistently on the ground and Jones missing a blitz pickup at one point, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports. Therefore, it's difficult to draw too many lasting conclusions from Sunday's numbers, and…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 1 at 5:25pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Bulls his way to TD in win

    Jones rushed 12 times for 51 yards and a touchdown and secured all three targets for 16 yards in the Buccaneers' 35-22 win over the Falcons on Sunday.

    Analysis: Jones split run-game work almost evenly with Peyton Barber, who logged 11 carries himself. However, it was Jones who got a touchdown opportunity and made good with it, powering his way into the end zone from four yards out to cap off the opening drive of the second half for the Buccaneers. The score was Jones' fifth of the season, all of which have come on the ground. The second-year back will look to follow up his solid performance when he faces the vulnerable Jaguars run defense Week 13.

    Published: Sun, Nov 24 at 1:53pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Foiled by game script in loss

    Jones rushed just four times for 13 yards and brought in two of four targets for one yard in the Buccaneers' 34-17 loss to the Saints on Sunday.

    Analysis: The final numbers say it all in terms of type of day it was for Jones, whose current "lead back" designation equated to zero fantasy relevance Sunday. Game script blew up any chance the Buccaneers had of sticking with the ground attaack, but due to the fact the team's defense frequently puts them in a hole, that's at risk of happening on any given week. Jones will look to boost his production significantly when he faces the Falcons' suddenly resurgent defense Week 12.

    Published: Sun, Nov 17 at 6:58pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Heavy use as receiver

    Jones rushed 11 times for 29 yards and a touchdown and secured all eight targets for 77 yards in the Buccaneers' 30-27 win over the Cardinals on Sunday. He also lost a fumble.

    Analysis: Jones' lost fumble didn't help his cause in his first official game as the starting running back, but he still put together a strong fantasy effort thanks to a seven-yard rushing touchdown in the first quarter and a team/career-high eight receptions. Jones ultimately logged the same number of carries as backfield mate Peyton Barber, however, so it appears Bruce Arians' definition of lead back is a bit more fluid than other coaches. Jones will look for more overall opportunities in a Week 11…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 10 at 3:10pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Named starting RB

    Coach Bruce Arians said Jones is the Buccaneers' starting running back going forward, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports. "He's been consistent [and] he's been more explosive," Arians said.

    Analysis: The news isn't surprising, as Jones has out-touched Peyton Barber, 32-15, over the last two weeks, but it's positive news for Jones' fantasy owners that the boss acknowledged his superior skill. Jones registered 67 rushing yards -- his second-highest total of the year -- and a touchdown in this past Sunday's overtime loss to the Seahawks. Barber still figures to get into the rotation, but Jones has a solid opportunity to live up to his starter's tag Sunday against the Cardinals, who have…read more

    Published: Mon, Nov 4 at 2:13pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Gets into end zone during loss

    Jones rushed 18 times for 67 yards and a touchdown and secured both of his targets for 15 yards in the Buccaneers' 40-34 overtime loss to the Seahawks on Sunday.

    Analysis: Jones spearheaded the Buccaneers' backfield by a comfortable margin, garnering 14 more carries than Peyton Barber. He powered in from eight yards out to cap off a seven-play, 75-yard drive in the first quarter as well, his third rushing touchdown of the season overall. Jones has encouragingly logged double-digit carries in consecutive games, but it's still anyone's guess who'll lead the backfield between he and Barber from week to week. Jones will look to build on what was his second-highest…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 3 at 8:39pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
More news and analysis available at NFL.com

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