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Chris Thompson a steady constant in the Redskins’ backfield

By Ian Cummings

Oct 4, 2015; Landover, MD, USA; Washington Redskins running back Chris Thompson (25) carries the ball against the Philadelphia Eagles in the first quarter at FedEx Field. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 4, 2015; Landover, MD, USA; Washington Redskins running back Chris Thompson (25) carries the ball against the Philadelphia Eagles in the first quarter at FedEx Field. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /
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Lost amid speculation at the running back position, Chris Thompson has emerged as one of the better third-down running backs in the league in recent years. Heading into his fifth season, Thompson hopes to continue serving in a key role for the burgundy and gold.

You won’t find much certainty in the Redskins’ running back room. Robert Kelley appears to have the starting job for now, but his play lacked consistency in 2016. Samaje Perine impressed in college with his brutish playing style, but he’ll have a learning curve as a rookie. Mack Brown flashed in limited action. But he’s a far cry from a sure thing. Matt Jones is on the way out. And Keith Marshall has yet to show he’s more than a one-dimensional back.

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It’s a good thing the Redskins have Chris Thompson. Now a veteran in his fifth year, the former Florida State Seminole was drafted in the fifth round of the 2013 NFL Draft by the Redskins. It’s taken a while for him to settle into a spot on the depth chart, but he’s now solidified himself as a strong third down back for the Redskins.

He’s coming off a career year in which he ran for 356 yards and three touchdowns on 68 carries, as well as nabbing nearly 50 receptions. The Redskins’ confidence in Thompson has never been higher. Here’s what Coach Gruden had to say about his clutch running back in a recent press conference, per Stephen Czarda of the team’s official website:

"“I think Chris Thompson’s role is big,” said Redskins head coach Jay Gruden. “When you’re talking about third downs, that’s the most important down in football. Third down, red zone, situational football, there’s no one better as a third down back than Chris in my opinion. He’s got a huge role on this football team. Whether he does some more stuff on first and second down will be determined. I’m sure he will. But he’s so valuable on third down I got to keep him in that role for now.”"

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It’s an appropriate role for Thompson, a shifty, speedy back who shapes up to a meager 5-foot-8, 194 pounds. However, while Thompson lacks in size, he certainly hasn’t lacked in production over the past couple years. He’s compiled a healthy 5.5 yards per carry in his time with the Redskins. The number five has been good to Thompson so far. Hopefully, his fifth year will bring more success.

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