Breaking down the Redskins offensive backfield for 2020

Pass-catching backs

Chris Thompson is now in Jacksonville and his third-down role will go Love, Gibson, or McKissic this year. I believe if everyone can remain healthy, the Redskins would like to see Bryce Love emerge as the third-down back. He is a sensational talent, with speed, power, and elusiveness. He is also coming off a major ACL injury which has kept him on the shelf for the last year and a half. His successful return could transform the Redskins offense.

Antonio Gibson is 2020’s third-round draft pick. He is bigger than Love, and not quite as fast, but he could fill a similar role. Some analysts interpret the Redskins selection of Gibson as a sign that they are doubtful Love can be what they had once hoped. But I think Scott Turner is dreaming up ways to get both explosive players on the field. Gibson can line up outside and create matchup problems. There are few corners with the size to compete with him, yet he also possesses the speed to worry them.

McKissic is another dangerous back who has proven fragile throughout his career. Like Love and Gibson, he can fill a variety of roles – runner, receiver, kick returner – and given Love’s injury status and Gibson’s lack of NFL experience, McKissic could stick around as insurance. He slots into the same position as Barber behind the two lead third-down backs, but McKissic is a far more dynamic player than Barber, and could produce if called upon.

Ferguson is a young journeyman who has played for three other franchises before coming to the Redskins in 2019. He has mostly been on practice squads, with the occasional call-up to the active roster to fill in for an injured player. It is hard to imagine him doing anything more for the Redskins in 2020.