NFL 2018: Predicting the top 5 rookie running backs
4. Ronald Jones III, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will need to rely heavily on the running game this season. Jameis Winston is suspended the first three games of the 2018 season and Ryan Fitzpatrick is expected to start. If the Bucs plan on winning, they’ll take the ball out of Fitzpatrick’s hands and put it into the belly of their backs.
A heavy dose of the running game means more opportunity for Ronald Jones, the explosive runner out of USC. As a matter of fact, there’s not a back on the Buccaneers roster that matches Jones’ big-play ability. Both Jacquizz Rogers and Peyton Barber failed to produce any eye-popping ability, which translates to what they showed statistically, while Charles Sims is more of a third down situational back.
This clears the way from Jones, who was selected in the second round despite having first-round talent. Even if he splits time with Barber, Jones’ speed and quickness will allow him to be effective. If they use him as a pass catcher, giving him the ball in space, then the payoff will be greater.
3. Rashaad Penny, Seattle Seahawks
The days of Marshawn Lynch are long gone and the Seattle Seahawks have struggled offensively without him. Moreover, Russell Wilson has been the catalyst behind what was left of the Seahawks offense. He’s been taking too many hits thanks to a lackluster running game. With that said, the Seahawks will undoubtedly rely on their running game now that they’ve used a first-round pick on Rashaad Penny.
In 2017, the San Diego State back dominated all of college football, leading the NCAA with 2,248 yards rushing. Penny’s big-play ability, power running style and nose for the end zone allowed him to rush for 23 touchdowns. Penny’s style is the closest to Lynch — he’s a volume back who’ll excel when everyone else is tired.
He’s quick and powerful ,like a running back that offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer had while with the Jets in Thomas Jones. Chris Carson could be the starter in 2018, but they’ll split time no doubt, and Penny will end the season as the leading back.