Washington Redskins: Five Breakout Candidates

Jun 16, 2015; Ashburn, VA, USA; Washington Redskins running back Matt Jones (31) participates in drills as part of day one of Redskins Minicamp at Redskins Park. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Matt Jones | Running Back

The rookie running back will have to fight to earn touches with Alfred Morris as his backfield companion. Even though I consider Morris to be a top 10 running back, I believe that he, and the rest of the Redskins offense, would benefit by having a second option to change things up every now and again; and that’s where Jones comes in.

The Redskins selected Jones in the third round of the 2015 NFL draft, and he has been earning rave reviews from coaches ever since. Following a morning workout at Redskins Park, Liz Clarke of the Washington Post recorded the following statement from Jay Gruden, “You think of him as a big, power-type back, but Matt’s done some things out in space that have been very, very impressive — making moves on the second level, in the passing game, running some option routes on linebackers. He’s got natural hands.”

The statement from Gruden hints that the Redskins might utilize Jones’ pass-catching ability more than initially planned. With Roy Helu Jr. no longer on the squad, the team has to replace his production. While Jones will likely be asked to assist the team in the passing game, I also foresee Washington utilizing his strength and power in goal line situations.

Morris will likely be given the lions share of the carries, but it’s very possible that Jones has a big rookie year.

Next: Grant him the opportunity