RICHMOND, Va. — Washington Redskins running back Matt Jones heads into the 2016 NFL season as the team’s expected starter. Head coach Jay Gruden said the key for Jones is matching the durability of Redskins fifth all-tie leading rusher Alfred Morris.

Last year, Jones played behind and was able to learn from Morris, who headed to Dallas in the offseason.

While Gruden emphasized durability, teammate DeAngelo Hall said Jones can make an impact in a way Morris couldn’t: with his hands.

“I don’t think people understand how good his hands are,” Hall said.

Jones saw playing time last year as a third-down back, recording 304 yards and one touchdown through the air.

If Jones is able to stay healthy during the regular season, he has the potential to be an every-down back for the Redskins — something not even Morris could do.


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