Jones named Buccaneers' starting RB

Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Bruce Arians announced second-year pro Ronald Jones will be the team's starting running back going forward.

Jones, a 2018 second-round pick, turned his first career start Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks into 18 carries for 67 yards and a touchdown. He had previously split time with Peyton Barber, ceding all starts to the fourth-year pro over the previous 23 games.

"I think he handled (his first start) really well. I think RoJo has earned the right to play a little bit more and start the ballgame," Arians said on Monday, according to ESPN's Jenna Laine.

"He's been consistent, he's been more explosive. It's not that Peyton did anything wrong," Arians added.

Jones disappointed in his rookie campaign, appearing in just nine games and compiling 44 rushing yards on 1.9 yards per carry. He's made strides this season, totaling 381 yards and three touchdowns while averaging 4.1.

Barber amassed 277 rushing yards and three touchdowns through eight games (seven starts) this season while averaging 3.3 yards per carry. He received only four carries for 15 yards in Sunday's loss to the Seahawks.