Newly-signed Cowboys’ running back Ronald Jones II will be suspended for two games to start the 2023 season following a positive test for performance-enhancing drugs, according to the NFL. But not so fast, says the 26-year-old star, who claims he only took normal medications prescribed by a physician.
“I just want to clear my name,” said Jones from the team’s practice facility in Oxnard, California this week. “Everybody wants to say I’m on steroids and, clearly, I’m not. I’m one of the skinniest dudes on the team and in the league.”
Jones went on to explain that the substance in question was a “heart stimulant” he’d long been prescribed by a licensed physician. So, needless to say, he assumed everything was business as usual, and he says he was stunned by the news from the league office.
“It’s something I’ve been prescribed over the course of my career,” said Jones. “It wasn’t any steroid or anything to enhance my game. It was medicine prescribed by a doctor that I wasn’t aware of. The tests came back and I’m responsible for what I put in my body… Just gotta make sure it’s not gonna happen again.”
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Jones, a Texas native, signed with Jerry Jones‘ franchise this offseason, following stints in Tampa Bay and Kansas City. In his career, the former USC star has 2244 career rushing yards to go along with 19 touchdowns. He was being counted on to help add a little mileage behind Prescott’s arm.
Coming off a season where they went 12-4 and advanced to the NFC Divisional Round in the postseason, the ‘Boys will be looking to replace the legs of former two-time rushing champion Ezekiel Elliott. The star running back had 876 yards and 12 rushing TDs in a frustrating final season in Dallas.
The Cowboys finished 12-5 in 2022. They open the season on Sunday night, Sept. 10, in New York against the Giants.
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