When the Bucs selected Ronald Jones last April in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft, most felt the team upgraded the running back position in a big way. In, fact many didn’t wonder if former USC running back Ronald Jones II would unseat incumbent Peyton Barber, but when it would take place.

Hopefully none of those fans were holding their collective breath.

Bucs RB Ronald Jones II – Photo by: Cliff Welch/PR

Through four preseason games not only has Jones underwhelmed in the stats department versus the other backs on the Bucs roster, he has underwhelmed statistically when compared to last year’s rookie running back Jeremy McNichols, a fifth-round selection. The former Boise State standout didn’t even make it to the opening day roster for the Bucs after a preseason where he ran for 79 yards on 23 carries.

Jones who was the 38th overall pick last April didn’t even average a yard per carry, and finished the preseason with 22 yards on 28 carries and one touchdown.

Both undrafted free agent running back Shaun Wilson (15 for 71 yards, 4.7 avg.) and Dare Ogunbowale (21 for 55 yards, 2.6 avg.) clearly outplayed Jones this preseason. And while Jones won’t be cut due to his draft status, you have to wonder how far down the depth chart he has fallen and at what point – if any – he makes an impact in 2018.

With the loss of Charles Sims to injury, and Barber and Jacquizz Rodgers having NFL experience at running back on the roster, will the Bucs be on the lookout for veteran back after cut downs on Saturday where all teams must be down to 53?

Will Jones even be on the 46-man active roster on game days? That question won’t be decided until September 9 when the Bucs open the 2018 regular season at New Orleans.