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The New Orleans Saints hope to remain in contention despite losing star QB Drew Brees to retirement and facing tension with WR Michael Thomas. The team hopes to have its quarterback situation settled soon and feels there are enough weapons offensively to compete. RB Tony Jones Jr. hopes to be one of those weapons when the season rolls around.
Tony Jones Jr. Week 1 preseason stats
7 carries, 82 yards, 1 TD, 5 receptions for 38 yards
Analysis
The Notre Dame product broke out with an 18-yard touchdown in the second quarter against the Ravens. He also had a 28-yard scamper as his longest rush of the day. Jones Jr. could be a change-of-pace running back in the event the Saints have injuries at the position. He also added five receptions for 38 yards and in an offense that is lacking in strong receiving options, that kind of production could help him stick around.
Tony Jones Jr. looking explosive tonight. 3 carries for 63 yards and this 18-yard TD. pic.twitter.com/t2fgHsh967
— Matt Freeman (@mattfreemanISD) August 14, 2021
Fantasy implications
This is still Alvin Kamara’s backfield with Latavius Murray likely handling mostly short yardage and goal line opportunities. Jones Jr. will probably be available on waivers in the event of an injury, but he’s not worth a roster spot at the beginning of the season. However, this is a good step towards him being more involved in New Orleans’ offense.