Washington Redskins offensive coordinator Scott Turner says veteran Adrian Peterson will have role in offense for the upcoming season. Speaking to local reporters via Zoom Wednesday, summarized what kind of role to expect for Peterson.
The Redskins have a crowded backfield. Peterson is the biggest name, coming off back-to-back seasons leading Washington in rushing. However, 2018 second-round pick Derrius Guice is returning from knee injuries that derailed each of his first two seasons.
The Redskins also added JD McKissic and Peyton Barber in free agency and drafted Antonio Gibson in the third round of this year’s draft.
If Guice can remain healthy he is sure to be a huge contributor in the offense. He may be the most balanced running back in the room. If not for Guice’s injuries, Peterson wouldn’t have been the featured back the last two seasons.
Gibson, who played wide receiver in college, is intriguing. With his size, speed and play-making abilities, he is expected to carve out a role in the offense. McKissic is expected to to be the third down back.
Meanwhile, Peterson may be the best pure running back. Even at the age of 35, he can chalk up rushing yards. Last season he was just 102 yards shy of back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons. In two seasons with the Redskins, Peterson is averaging 4.2 yards per carry.
But, Peterson has never been known for his pass catching abilities. And he is much of a pass protector. It’s why previous head coach Jay Gruden wasn’t all thrilled with using Peterson as a featured back last season.
If the younger backs thrive, Peterson’s role could be in question. At least going into the season, Turner sees how he can effectively use Peterson.
