The Washington Redskins drafted Antonio Gibson as a running back. But, his speed, size and playmaking abilities make him versatile. He played wide receiver in college and can return punts and kickoffs. That versatility has Redskins special teams coach Nate Kaczor excited about the possibilities of using the rookie in the return game.
Speaking to local reporters Tuesday via Zoom, Kaczor explained his scenario of using Gibson and wide receiver Steven Sims Jr. together on kickoffs.
“In an ideal setting, if you have a legitimate returner [Sims] and your off-returner [Gibson], who is 30 pounds bigger than your returner, if he doesn’t get the ball he becomes a blocker. And he weighs 220 [pounds]. That’s a really good situation. If they don’t really want to kick it to one guy and they want to kick it to your other one and he’s really good, then you have a heck of a situation there.”
Nate Kaczor / h/t NBC Sports Washington
Previously, Gibson said he views himself as a “weapon” when asked what position does he consider himself.
The Redskins intend to use him as a running back, assigning him the No. 24. While he develops into a runner, the coaching staff will want to get the football in his hands any kind of way. He is capable of breaking just about any play open.
Gibson averaged 15.5 yards an offensive touch as a senior at Memphis. He totaled 71 offensive touches for 1,104 yards and 12 touchdowns. Gibson also averaged 28 yards per kickoff return with one touchdown.
“He could be on the punt team and play a slot, which is very conducive to running backs skill sets, where the block rushes and then release and help contain. Quite often on the punt team in the NFL, you will see a starter or two on offense or defense being used. He’s more versatile because he is a returner. He is big enough to play in the return game as a blocker, as an off-returner.”
Nate Kaczor / h/t NBC Sports Washington
Gibson’s potential to be a big playmaker is intriguing. The Redskins have a crowded backfield heading into training camp. Thus, the team will try whatever avenue to get Gibson on the field. He can be a huge asset on special teams.
Still, Kaczor understands the offense may need him more. The more offensive coordinator Scott Turner uses him on offense, the less Gibson will be available for special teams.
