The Player

In Jones’ three years with the Florida Gators, he never once topped 900 yards in a single season, as injuries and inconsistent line and quarterback play stunted his potential. Still, there were often flashes of greatness both as a runner and as a receiver, flashes that clearly led to the Redskins’ taking a chance much earlier than most expected, flashes like a 192-yard explosion against the rival Georgia Bulldogs last season and a 176-yard performance against Kentucky in 2013.

As a freshman, he sealed the Gators’ victory against a talented Florida State defense with a 32-yard touchdown run late in the fourth quarter to finish with 81 yards on only eight rushing attempts. He consistently showcased the power you would expect for a 6’2’’, 231-pound back and also outstanding agility and quickness for a player of his size.

And while he wasn’t utilized often as a receiver, he demonstrated soft hands and, even more impressive for a college player, an ability to pass protect that allows him to project as a three-down back.

This is also a player who has almost identical measurables to a pretty good NFL runner named won’t be affected by Matt Jones in 2015. But with the former sixth-round pick set to hit free agency at the end of the 2015 season, one has to wonder if the Redskins really want to pay top-dollar a player who doesn’t contribute in the passing game (only 37 career receptions) and lacks special talent.

Morris is a good player who excels when running downhill and breaking tackles, but he is far from an ideal fit for the pass-oriented attack that head coach Gruden prefers to run.

With a lot of tread left on his tires after only 297 collegiate carries, Jones is a player who may have his best football in front of him. Regardless, for the small price you have to pay to obtain him, he is clearly worth the investment both as a talent and in a backfield where opportunity could present itself sooner than most might realize.