The Dallas Cowboys are facing a setback in their running back lineup as Ronald Jones has been suspended by the NFL for the first two games of the 2023 season. The suspension comes as a result of violating the league’s policy on Performance-Enhancing Substances (PED).
Jones, who joined the Cowboys on a one-year contract during the offseason, will be eligible to continue practicing with the team and participate in preseason games. However, he will be prohibited from taking the field in the opening two games of the season.
The 2023 season commences with a significant NFC East showdown against the New York Giants, followed by a home game against the New York Jets led by Aaron Rodgers. In Jones’ absence, the Cowboys will rely on Tony Pollard and Malik Davis to carry the load in the backfield.
Fans can expect to see Jones back in action during Week 3 when the Cowboys take on the Arizona Cardinals.
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Before signing with the Cowboys, Jones had played for the Kansas City Chiefs in the previous season, having spent the first four seasons of his career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. This year, he was expected to serve as the backup to Tony Pollard.
The NFL spokesperson issued a statement on Jones’ suspension: “Ronald Jones of the Dallas Cowboys has been suspended without pay for the first two games of the 2023 regular season for violating the NFL Policy on Performance-Enhancing Substances. Jones is eligible to participate in all preseason practices and games. He will be allowed to return to the Cowboys’ active roster on Monday, Sept. 18, following the team’s Week 2 game vs. the New York Jets.”
The absence of Jones during the games against the New York Jets and the New York Giants will pose a significant challenge for the Cowboys, especially as Pollard is still recovering from an ankle injury sustained during the playoffs. The team will need to rely on their remaining running backs to step up and fill the void during this suspension period.
