Adrian Peterson managed to resurrect his career with the Washington Redskins after a productive 2018 season. After his performances on the field, some would have expected him to start for Jay Gruden's team this year.
But as NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo report, the 12-year veteran will find himself inactive to start the season.
Washington's head coach spoke about counting on second-year running back Derrius Guice to develop into a franchise playmaker by getting him as many snaps as possible.
“We feel like he can be a first, second and even a third-down back,” Gruden told reporters this week, per Rapoport and Mike Garafolo. “I think the offense, carries wise, will probably go through him, pretty much.”
It's understandable to see where Gruden is coming from with this decision. Peterson is not getting any younger and could walk away from the game at any moment. Meanwhile, you have a young, talented running back who posted great rushing numbers during his three years at LSU.
However, Peterson has just enjoyed one of his most productive seasons to date. After two years of terrible football where he only played a total of 13 games, he got a second wind with the Redskins. He made 251 carries for 1,042 rushing yards and seven TDs. He played fantastic football that earned him a two-year extension with the team.
This move makes it clear that they want Peterson to act as Guice's mentor and teach him how to become a great running back. He may have said that he's happy to have a role in the team, but only time will tell if he will remain a mentor until December.
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