6 Washington players who proved their worth in 2021

5. Antonio Gibson

Wait, Antonio Gibson featured on the “didn’t prove their worth” article, how does he qualify for this one? That’s a fair question. But why can’t both things be true? Is it not possible to be disappointed with his fumbling issues, but also be wildly impressed by his toughness and overall production?

You better believe it is.

Gibson grew into a workhorse role in 2021. He finished fourth in the NFL with 258 rushing attempts and sixth in rushing yards (1,037) despite facing stacked boxes on almost every snap with Taylor Heinicke under center.

We’d also be remiss if we didn’t note that Gibson played through a stress fracture in his shin for most of the season leading up to the bye. We suggested Washington should shut him down and his performances shut us right up.

For the season, Gibson led Washington in every major rushing category and total touchdowns (10), but he also showed flashes of his college days at Memphis by ranking third on the team with 42 catches and fifth with 292 receiving yards.

That’s absurd production for a running back who was hampered by his quarterback and whose offensive line lacked any semblance of continuity. It’s a big if, but if Gibson can rectify his fumbling issues, there’s nothing stopping him from becoming a top-seven(ish) player at the position.

We’re all rooting for you, AG.