Ronald Jones Ranks as Top PFF RB Through Week 4 With Improved Fantasy Performance

Through the first month of the NFL season, one of the most surprising performances has been that of Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Ronald Jones.

He's been so effective that the second-year back is the highest-graded running back through Week 4, according to Pro Football Focus (PFF).

What makes that even more surprising are the other names atop their respective position groupings. Every other offensive position – quarterback, wide receiver and tight end – is a big name or someone who's having a noticeably incredible season. When you hear the names Carson Wentz, Chris Godwin or George Kittle, you take notice, especially when it comes to fantasy.

Then you have Jones. By the eye test, you'd be hard pressed to find someone who would pick Jones as the NLF's best running back through Week 4. Yet, that's what the PFF rankings have.

Jones has been good, but his fantasy numbers say he's nothing more than an RB2. Ranked as RB23 in standard scoring fantasy leagues through Week 4, the Bucs' back has been solid, tallying 234 yards on 50 carries (4.7 yard per carry) to go along with one rushing touchdown.

Those numbers rank Jones No. 17 in rushing yards, No. 16 in yards per carry and tied for No. 23 in rushing touchdowns among running backs. In fact, his own teammate, Peyton Barber, has more rushing touchdowns this season (two).

If Jones continues to keep up this quality of performance, he should emerge as the majority leader in the Tampa Bay backfield. However, seeing him ranked at the No. 1 running back, according to PFF, is a bit of a shock.

With 12 more games left to be played, we'll have to see if Jones' future performances are enough to keep him in that top spot.

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