Redskins RB Chris Thompson ruled out for first preseason game

The Redskins have a number of veteran players returning from injury this season. One such player has been ruled out for the team’s first preseason game of 2018.

It’s been almost nine months since Washington Redskins third down back Chris Thompson suffered a fractured fibula against the New Orleans Saints, ending his 2017 campaign. The Chris Army Knife has been recovering for that time, and while he’s well on his way to having a significant role in the Redskins’ offense once again, he won’t be ready for the team’s first preseason matchup.

Thompson has been making good progress. Recent reports detailed that he was up to full speed in practices. He has a plate in his leg where the break occurred, so the chance of a recurring injury is unlikely. But Thompson, from a mental standpoint, needs more time to get his confidence back, so that he can play more freely when the regular season hits. Jay Gruden confirmed in a press conference this morning that Thompson will sit out Week 1 against the New England Patriots.

It’s important to reiterate that Chris Thompson isn’t sitting out because he can’t play. The running back is simply playing it safe and taking it slow. He’s a veteran in the NFL now, so getting these reps isn’t as important for him as it is for younger players with jobs on the line. In fact, it’s very likely that we won’t see Thompson on the field all too much until the regular season starts. He’s an important weapon for the offense, and above all, his good health is a priority.

With Thompson out for Week 1 of preseason, at the very least, the Redskins will have a great opportunity to get Byron Marshall and Kapri Bibbs, the leading contenders for the backup third-down back job, more reps. Marshall has reportedly carved out a lead for himself in training camp, but preseason is a different animal, and Bibbs, who showcased his explosive ability in the latter weeks of the 2017 season, could gain some ground in full speed action.

Whoever backs him up, Chris Thompson should be able to keep them on the bench come Week 1 of the regular season. Physically, his injury is almost one-hundred percent. He just needs time to quicken his movements and gain his confidence. Once he does, he’ll be the same running back that logged over 500 receiving yards in ten games last year. The value of that kind of player in the Redskins offense is inexhaustible.