Cowboys’ Ronald Jones Suspended for Violating NFL Drug Policy

Oxnard, Calif. – Dallas Cowboys running back Ronald Jones has been suspended for the first two games of the regular season after violating the NFL’s performance-enhancing drug policy. The suspension will go into effect on September 3rd and he will be eligible to return on September 18th, following the Cowboys’ Week 2 match against the New York Jets.

Jones, who signed a one-year contract with the Cowboys in March, will be allowed to continue practicing during training camp and play in preseason games. However, his absence during the regular season will undoubtedly impact the Cowboys’ roster.

Last year, Jones had limited playing time with the Kansas City Chiefs, with just 17 carries in six games, resulting in 70 yards and a touchdown. His most successful season came in 2020 as a member of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he played a pivotal role in helping the team win the Super Bowl, with 978 yards on 192 carries and seven touchdowns.

The Cowboys are now left with limited experience in their running back position behind starter Tony Pollard. Pollard himself is currently recovering from high-ankle surgery earlier this year. Competing for the backup spots with Jones are Rico Dowdle, Malik Davis, and Deuce Vaughn, a sixth-round draft pick this year.

Dowdle appeared in five games last season before being sidelined with an ankle injury. He has only seven carries for 24 yards in his career. Davis, on the other hand, made the Cowboys’ roster last year as an undrafted free agent and recorded 161 rushing yards on 38 carries, along with a touchdown and six catches for 63 yards.

Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy has expressed confidence in his backup running backs, particularly Dowdle and Davis, praising their progress during training camp. He has also emphasized the need to involve Deuce Vaughn, who has caught McCarthy’s attention during the summer months.

The absence of Ronald Jones will undoubtedly put pressure on the Cowboys’ backfield, but it also presents an opportunity for Rico Dowdle, Malik Davis, and Deuce Vaughn to showcase their skills and make a case for increased playing time. As the Cowboys prepare for the regular season, their depth at the running back position will be closely watched as they navigate the early games without Jones.