3 running backs Commanders could target after latest rumors

2. Chase Edmonds

For everything Antonio Gibson provides as a downhill runner, ability to break tackles and having a nose for the end zone (18 touchdowns in his first two years) he comes up short in speed, agility and a propensity to rip off big runs.

That’s where Chase Edmonds comes into the picture. The pending Cardinals free agent has a reputation of being more of a pass-catching back than a “runner,” so to speak, but his career 4.7 yards per carry suggests otherwise.

If you don’t think Edmonds would be an ideal backup for Gibson, you clearly didn’t watch Arizona play football this season. While Edmonds brought acceleration and elusiveness to the Cardinals’ backfield, James Conner, brought the hammer between the tackles as the more bruising and physical back.

Gibson and Edmonds could form a similar partnership in Washington. The Fordham product has always flashed potential, but he wasn’t given a prominent role in Arizona’s offense until the 2020 season. That year, he produced 448 rushing yards on 4.6 YPC, to go with 53 catches for 402 yards and four touchdowns.

In 2021, Edmonds was just as productive despite playing just 12 games. Over that span, he contributed 592 rushing yards and two scores on 5.1 YPC, which tied a career high, adding 43 catches for 311 yards as a receiver.

While Edmonds is one of the best pass-catching backs in the NFL, he’s proven the last two seasons that he’s more than a one-trick pony.

We want the Commanders to sign Edmonds for his running prowess, but his ability to catch passes and move the chains would give them needed insurance if JD McKissic, a fellow pending free agent, signs elsewhere this offseason.