Written by John Keim at ESPN.com
Washington Redskins running back Matt Jones was hoping to be with another team by now. That’s why he skipped the voluntary practice sessions earlier this spring. But the Redskins weren’t ready to discard him, so Jones arrived to the mandatory minicamp still uncertain about his future.
“I’m on the team and I’ll make plays like I’m on the team,” Jones said. “As far as my career, I still don’t know. But I’m on the roster and that’s what I’m going to come and do, come and compete.”
Jones acknowledged that his agent, Hadley Engelhard, put together a plan that included trying to work out a trade with another team. Failing that, they had hoped Washington would release Jones, a third-round pick in 2015.
Jones started the first seven games last season, rushing for 460 yards, before losing his job to undrafted free agent Rob Kelley. In April, the Redskins drafted running back Samaje Perine in the fourth round.
“When they drafted Perine, it wasn’t no negative vibe against that,” Jones said. “Competition brings out the best of a person.”
Jones said he didn’t consider skipping the minicamp, nor was he looking for leverage.
“It’s about seeing how far my career goes and where I end up at,” he said, “It wasn’t a battle with me, just trying to see where my future goes. I’m ready to train and be a part of a team and find a home.”
Jones did not help himself last season by fumbling eight times, losing six. In his last start of 2016, Jones lost a fumble vs. Detroit in the Lions’ end zone, costing the Redskins a possible touchdown in a 2017 loss. He did not carry the ball again last season.
Though Jones worked with the second offense Tuesday, he’s still a longshot to earn a roster spot should he remain in Washington. The Redskins also have Mack Brown, whose ability to play special teams kept Jones from being active on game days after his benching. Keith Marshall, a seventh-round pick in 2016, has returned from a torn ACL. Chris Thompson is their third-down back.
To continue reading this article, click here.
