Kansas City Chiefs RB Ronald Jones saw his first opportunity of the 2022 NFL season in Week 12 against the Los Angeles Rams.
A healthy scratch for 10 consecutive weeks, Jones turned his “legitimate chance to play” into a fruitful debut with the Chiefs in Week 12. He appeared in 15% of the team’s offensive snaps, carrying the ball four times for 12 yards and catching a 22-yard reception. He didn’t have a single negative play all game long.
Speaking to reporters in the locker room after the game, Jones felt satisfied with what he was able to show on Sunday afternoon.
“I feel good,” Jones said. “(Head) Coach (Andy Reid) said I was going to get a few plays, so just staying ready all week and focused all week. You know, just being a pro.”
Part of being a professional is staying prepared for anything and everything. While Jones didn’t expect to be the read that Patrick Mahomes went to on his 22-yard reception, he said that he practiced for that moment and opportunity.
“Nah, I didn’t,” Jones said. “But we work it in practice all the time, so you’ve got to stay ready. He’s (Patrick Mahomes) a magician back there, so he can hit any one of us at any time.”
Jones didn’t go into the practice week with any expectations of his role knowing that Clyde Edwards-Helaire had been placed on injured reserve. Andy Reid and Eric Bieniemy also didn’t give him anything extra, knowing that he’s been preparing for his chance all season long.
“No, just some regular scheme and blitzes,” Jones said. “Things that we do every week. I’ve been prepping the whole time, just staying in shape and getting out there. Game speed is a little different, huffing and puffing, but I was glad to be out there. I could play another quarter right now.”
Taking advantage of this opportunity will only lead to more chances for Jones to get out there and be more involved on offense in the future.
