NFL Cowboys’ Ronald Jones Suspended for PED violation

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Monday saw the NFL announce a two-game suspension for Dallas Cowboys running back Ronald Jones, following a violation of the league’s policy on performance-enhancing substances. The former Tampa Bay Buccaneers tailback had only recently joined the Cowboys in March, set to play second fiddle to the franchise-tagged Tony Pollard. As Jones prepares to turn 26, he finds himself in an unfortunate predicament that may severely affect his new team’s plans for the forthcoming season.

With the suspension in place, Jones retains eligibility to participate in both the training camp and the preseason practices. However, he will need to distance himself from the team in the run-up to Week 1. The suspension lift date, set for September 18, will be eagerly awaited by the Dallas camp and fans alike.

Dallas Cowboys Change of Plans

The effects of this development resonate strongly within the Cowboys’ running back (RB) unit. The second-string running back position was always going to be a closely contested spot, and Jones was expected to battle fiercely for it. The recent turn of events will inevitably lead the Cowboys to reconsider their options. It’s highly plausible they will delve into the market to bolster their ranks.

One name that instantly surfaces in such a context is Ezekiel Elliott. Having recently visited the New England Patriots, a return to Dallas might be an interesting possibility, even if it currently seems unlikely. However, the move could make strategic sense for the Cowboys, given the circumstances.

The free-agent pool is also home to significant talents such as Dalvin Cook and Leonard Fournette. However, Cook’s potential cost might overshadow his talent in the eyes of the Cowboys’ management, given their current financial considerations. As for Fournette, while he is a viable option, the Cowboys might tread carefully in their selection process.

As things stand, Tony Pollard remains the clear starter for Dallas, expected to shoulder the majority of the running back duties. However, with Jones’ suspension, the necessity for another player to step up becomes more prominent. Among the existing squad members, Malik Davis, Rico Dowdle, and rookie Deuce Vaughn seem to be the most probable candidates to receive increased attention in the coming weeks.

Reflecting on Jones’ journey through the NFL, the Buccaneers picked him up in the second round of the 2018 Draft. He played an integral role during his four seasons in Tampa Bay, contributing significantly to their 2020 Super Bowl victory. Jones clocked a commendable 2,174 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns during his tenure with the Buccaneers.

Following his stint in Tampa Bay, Jones moved to Kansas City for a season that proved far less fruitful. With a mere 17 carries totaling 70 yards and a single touchdown, his time with the Chiefs was relatively unremarkable.

The recent announcement of Jones’ suspension brings his career trajectory to an unexpected crossroads. A promising beginning with the Buccaneers, a forgettable spell with the Chiefs, and now a rocky start with the Cowboys characterize his journey through the league. In light of this suspension, the coming season could prove pivotal for Jones, not just in terms of his stint with the Cowboys, but also for his overall standing within the NFL.

Ronald Jones’ unexpected suspension certainly shakes up the NFL lines, presenting the Cowboys with a challenge as the season approaches. Without Jones, the team will need to rethink their offensive strategies, potentially causing a shift in projected game outcomes and player performances. This situation could influence NFL Odds for the Cowboys’ initial games, depending on who steps up in Jones’ short absence.