The Washington Redskins exceeded expectations this season thanks to the improved play of Kirk Cousins and guys like Jordan Reed who broke out in a big way. They helped push the Redskins to the top of the NFC East and into the postseason. However, the biggest weakness in Washington in 2015 was the run game as Alfred Morris and Matt Jones failed to find any type of consistency each week. Now the Redskins have a tough call to make as Morris sits with an expiring contract.
According to Rich Tandler of CSN Washington, the Redskins do not plan on re-signing Morris this offseason after he rushed for just 715 yards and one touchdown. While he has proven he can have success and be a durable running back, Morris is simply not putting up the numbers he did in his first two seasons in the league. He has gotten progressively worse and while head coach Jay Gruden has been a fan of the running back, the Redskins appear ready to move on.
The Redskins need running back help, but Morris does not appear in the running to be part of that effort. Behind the veteran is Matt Jones who showed some promise in the limited time he saw on the field. Morris is hopeful to return to Washington. He stressed to the media that he would like a new deal, but with better options on the open market, the running back might not get his wish.
"When I first came into the league, no matter what team I went to, I just wanted to do my whole career with the same team," Morris said, via ESPN.com. "That's still my goal. I would love to return, but a lot goes into that. I haven't thought about that. You all keep bringing it up, but we'll see what happens."
The Redskins have options at the run game. With Jones on the roster, they could target a veteran like Matt Forte or even Marshawn Lynch who may or may not be retiring. Lamar Miller, Chris Ivory and Doug Martin represent the pricey options on the market. Players like Ronnie Hillman, James Starks and Bilal Powell would be cheaper and potentially better compliments to Jones.
The Redskins have a lot of offensive decisions to make this year. Cousins has an expiring contract and while no one expects him to depart the franchise, the team must decide between a long-term contract or a tag. They will also likely have to pick between DeSean Jackson and Pierre Garcon who both carry heavy cap hits in 2016. According to the Washington Post, a receiver is on the draft list for the Redskins this year which could mean either Jackson or Garcon could get released.
