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Washington Redskins: Running game will be crucial element of 2017 offense

By Lawrence Jason Dukes

Nov 20, 2016; Landover, MD, USA; Washington Redskins running back Robert Kelley (32) celebrates with Redskins quarterback Kirk Cousins (8) after scoring a touchdown against the Green Bay Packers in the fourth quarter at FedEx Field. The Redskins won 42-24. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 20, 2016; Landover, MD, USA; Washington Redskins running back Robert Kelley (32) celebrates with Redskins quarterback Kirk Cousins (8) after scoring a touchdown against the Green Bay Packers in the fourth quarter at FedEx Field. The Redskins won 42-24. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 1, 2017; Landover, MD, USA; Washington Redskins running back Chris Thompson (25) rushes the ball as New York Giants defensive back Trevin Wade (31) defends during the first half at FedEx Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 1, 2017; Landover, MD, USA; Washington Redskins running back Chris Thompson (25) rushes the ball as New York Giants defensive back Trevin Wade (31) defends during the first half at FedEx Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports /

The backs on the Redskins offense compliment each other well

Although he had only nine starts, Robert Kelley posted solid numbers with 168 carries, 704 yards and six touchdowns. Chris Thompson is an excellent change-of-pace back and is a vital piece on the Redskins offense.

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The true wild card in Washington’s backfield is Samaje Perine. Perine ended his college career as the Sooners all-time leading rusher. At 5-foot-11, 234 pounds, he fits the mold of a true downhill runner. He is capable of being the work horse. Head coach Jay Gruden expressed his excitement about how the Redskins the three backs factor into the Redskins offense, per Redskins.com’s Stephen Czarda.

"“If you are dressed on game day, one of the three that is dressed, you’re going to get carries,” Gruden said. “Whether it’s 18 for Fat Rob and 15 for Perine and five for Chris; however it pans out. They will compete and there is always going to be competition here that’s never going to change.”"

With Matt Jones on the trading block, Gruden is content with the trio of Kelley, Perine, and Thompson. The Redskins offense is doing a bit of addition by subtraction. Although they lost a dynamic duo in Garçon and Jackson, the Redskins added a punishing runner in the back field in Perine to pair with Kelley.

Next: Redskins Post-Draft Stat Predictions

Historically, the Redskins have enjoyed the most success when they are able to get the most out of its rushing attack. It’s imperative that Jay Gruden structures a more balanced playbook for the Redskins offense in 2017. If they are to become an elite offense next season, they’ll need more from their 21st ranked rushing offense.

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