The Washington Redskins' running game was a question mark entering training camp -- and it will probably remain one when the season begins. It's not that they won't have a good season running the ball, but it's that there are plenty of questions to answer. And it's not just on the backs; the blocking must be more consistent. But one issue for the coaches last season was the inability of their backs to create for themselves. Whether that changes this season remains to be seen considering one of those backs from last year, Matt Jones, is now their primary back.
Matt Jones
ESPN Fantasy Projection: 936.7 rushing yards, 5.2 touchdowns
Over or under: I’m going under on the yards and over on touchdowns. Someone has to score them, and Jones will receive plenty of chances as the primary back. Jones showed some flashes last season, but wasn’t nearly consistent enough as a runner. And in the preseason opener it was hard to tell how far not only he’s come, but the run game in general. This isn’t just on him. Jones has worked hard this offseason, hoping to become more durable. His pad level gets too upright at times and it costs him extra yards at the end of runs; it’s why he averaged just 1.4 yards after contact last season. Jones could be a boom/bust player in games -- someone who gets a lot of short carries, but is capable of a long one as well because he moves well. Also, the Redskins’ offense has a lot of talent in the passing game, which could limit his opportunities. The Redskins say Jones will have a big season, but without seeing much live action -- no tackling in practice and only three carries in the preseason opener -- it’s just really hard to know at this point.
ESPN Fantasy Projection: 317.6 rushing yards, 1.9 touchdowns
Over or under: Under. Again, it’s hard to get a feel for the backs at this point, and though Marshall has great speed, he has a lot to learn about running in the NFL. Marshall must become more patient on his runs; it led to tough carries in his first preseason game. After dealing with an ACL injury at Georgia, and not being a full-time back, it’s hard to trust what he’ll do. It could be that Washington signs a veteran after the season begins. Marshall is capable of finishing the season well -- he does have talent -- but his chances could be limited early simply because of his inexperience. That will impact his yards.
ESPN Fantasy Projection: 161.6 rushing yards, 0.8 touchdowns
Over or under: Over on both. Thompson continues to improve and should get more opportunities this season. Thompson has become a more patient runner each season, which has led to bigger plays. And he’s helped this year because he’s much better able to read defenses. And he’s much more comfortable in the offense. If the Redskins use a heavier passing attack, it should increase his playing time. The big question with him always will be durability, and his size (5-foot-8, 193 pounds) probably keeps him as a No. 2 back. But if he stays healthy, he should be more productive than 2015.
