Will Oakland Raiders RB Taiwan Jones Challenge Michael Bush for No. 2 Spot?

It might be a bit far off, but in his lone professional appearance, Oakland Raiders running back Taiwan Jones had quite the performance.

In last week’s game against the New Orleans Saints, Jones carried the ball 13 times for 81 yards and a touchdown. He also caught a pair of passes for 18 yards. While over six yards per carry is impressive, it is Jones’ manner of rushing that was most admirable. Jones was able to pause, reverse field and identify running lanes equal to an NFL veteran. His game presence was impeccable, far beyond that of a preseason rookie.

Jones’ performance raises the question: Can he leapfrog Michael Bush for the No. 2 RB spot?

The short answer is no.

As impressive as Jones was, it was a single preseason game, partially against second-string defense. Jones showed his potential and ability, but Michael Bush hasn’t exactly been a slouch either. If Jones was starring and Bush lagging, the question gains validity-however, that has not been the case.

Bush has rushed 16 times for 74 yards and caught five balls for 50 yards. Pretty good for a bit over 20 touches.

Jones uses his speed to his advantage while Bush relies more on his blistering strength. Most NFL teams use a smash-and-dash combo. The Raiders have that with Darren McFadden and Michael Bush. Jones would need to radically alter his playing style and bulk to overtake Bush.

A number of good running backs shouldn’t be a problem for any NFL team. Taiwan Jones will see a number of opportunities to run the ball in this upcoming year whether or not his official title is No. 2 back or No. 3.

Suffice it to say, right now the Raiders have a number of quality players to fill the running back position. With the eminent return of Darren McFadden, Michael Bush and the apparent emergence of Taiwan Jones, the Raiders have three quality running backs.

In the future, Jones could become the Raiders secondary or even primary back, but for this year he’ll need to settle for a reserve role.


People also view

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *