Riggo's Rag
FanSided

Report: Redskins fear Rob Kelley may have fractured rib in team’s victory

By Jacob Camenker

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Rob Kelley #20 of the Washington Redskins runs the ball against the Los Angeles Rams at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Rob Kelley #20 of the Washington Redskins runs the ball against the Los Angeles Rams at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on September 17, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit

Rob Kelley was on his way to a career day in the first half of the Redskins 27-20 victory over the Rams. However, he may have suffered a fractured rib in the contest.

One of the most encouraging signs of the first half for the Washington Redskins in their victory over the Los Angeles Rams was the performance of Rob Kelley. After the running back had totaled just 30 yards on 10 carries in the opener, Kelley looked significantly better against the Rams. Kelley was able to find running lanes easily and used his combination of strength and speed to tear apart the defense. In the first half, he had 78 yards on 12 carries.

However, towards the latter end of the second quarter, Kelley went down and appeared to be injured. He went straight to the locker room after coming off the field and never returned. According to ESPN’s John Keim, Jay Gruden fears that Kelley may have suffered a fractured rib. That would be bad news for the team.

A rib injury would make it difficult for Kelley to come back quickly. Kelley is a tough runner who needs to use his physicality to move the ball. Until his rib is mostly healed, he will not be able to do that. The Redskins have to hope that there is either no fracture or the injury is not serious. Otherwise, Kelley could miss some time.

More from Riggo's Rag

In the event that Kelley misses time, that would give a major boost to rookie Samaje Perine. After the injury to Kelley, Perine took over as the lead back for the team. He saw 21 carries and recorded 67 yards on the day. Perine showed flashes of capable ability, and he can provide a similar impact to Kelley. He isn’t quite as explosive at this time but as he develops, he will gain more playmaking ability.

Chris Thompson would continue to function in the role that he saw on Sunday. Thompson was given just a few carries, but he totaled 77 yards and two touchdowns in spite of that. The Redskins want to keep him fresh and use him mostly in the passing game, given his slight 5-foot-8 frame. Thompson would probably still be the passing back and change of pace guy if Kelley is out, but he will continue to be the biggest playmaker the team has at the position regardless.

If Kelley is inactive, the Redskins would likely play Mack Brown as their third back. Brown has been inactive for the Redskins first two contests, but he has potential and looked good in the preseason. Brown has solid special teams ability as well and could play on that unit. He would most likely see 5-10 carries a game if active, depending on how Perine is doing as the leader.

Next: Redskins Breakdown for Week 2 vs. Rams

The Redskins have a decent committee at the running back position. So if Kelley has to miss time, they will have suitable alternatives. However, at the same time, Kelley is clearly their top power back right now. Perine and Brown have upside, but neither are proven options. If both flounder, the Redskins would miss Kelley. It will be interesting to see what his prognosis officially is. We will keep you updated on his status moving forward.

Home/Commanders News