Sleeper Watch

Thomas Jones a sleeper? Didn’t all self-respecting fantasy owners give up on him a long time ago? Aside from tantalizing glimpses such as his 173-yard explosion in week two of last season, Jones has been a major disappointment since being drafted 7th overall by Arizona three years ago. Now, following Jones’ trade to the Buccaneers, he might be worth another look.

Ironically, he might have to compete for the starting job in Tampa Bay with the same player he faced as competition as a rookie in 2000: Michael Pittman. This time, however, Jones has a better chance of ending up as the starting running back, thanks in part to Pittman’s much-publicized legal troubles.

With an average of fifteen carries per game last season, Jones only managed to gain 56.8 yards on the ground per contest before breaking his hand in a freak off-the-field accident involving a telephone and a mother confirming the story to team officials. Doesn’t sound too promising? The move from Arizona to Tampa Bay could be just the right thing to turn Jones’ career around. If Pittman can’t play, Jones will be the starter for the reigning Super Bowl champions, which would make him a useful addition to any team as a second or third running back.