Dallas Cowboys Release Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers Super Bowl Champion Running Back
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are the surprise of the NFL after beginning the season 2-0. After fielding the worst-rushing attack in the league a year ago, the Buccaneers have relied on the young combination of second-year back Rachaad White and rookie Sean Tucker to soak up the majority of carries in the backfield.
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However, a couple of running backs that suited up for the franchise in recent seasons are struggling to make an impact early this season. Veteran Leonard Fournette remains a free agent while the Dallas Cowboys announced on Monday afternoon that they were releasing sixth-year back Ronald Jones II.
The move came on the heels of Jones completing a two-game suspension to start the season for violating the NFL's PED policy. He was due to return to the active roster but instead, Dallas chose to move in a different direction.
The Cowboys haven't missed his presence much. Star running back Tony Pollard has taken on a significant role in the backfield after returning from offseason surgery. It appears that the franchise is confident in what Rico Dowdle and Deuce Vaughn bring to the table as well.
This is disappointing news for the former second-round pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. Jones has displayed plenty of talent throughout his career but has struggled with turnovers and consistency. He spent the first four years of his career with the Buccaneers, developing into a part-time starter.
Jones's best season at the professional level came in 2020 when Tampa Bay went on a run to win Super Bowl LV. He rushed 192 times for 978 yards and seven rushing touchdowns while catching 28 passes for 165 yards and another score. He totaled 505 attempts for 2,244 yards and 19 touchdowns during his time with the Buccaneers.
After playing out his rookie contract, Jones elected to sign with the Kansas City Chiefs last year. He was relegated to a reserve role, rushing 17 times for 70 yards and a touchdown in a career-low six appearances. Jones ended up being a part of his second championship team as the Chiefs defeated the Eagles in Super Bowl LVII.
READ MORE: Bucs' Linebacker Devin White Regrets Trade Request: "I'm Stupid For Trying to Leave!"
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