Since selected in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft by the Washington Redskins, there has been much talked about rookie running back Derrius Guice surrounding the fall from his projection of being a first-round pick.
However, he has quickly made a strong impression on his new team with head coach Jay Gruden already speaking quite highly of his competitiveness and willingness to learn the playbook, according to Joh Keim of ESPN.
“He’s just a ball of energy,” Redskins coach Jay Gruden said. “He’s really excited to be here. He’s willing to learn. He’s first in the meeting, got his playbook open and just soaking in all the knowledge.”
These comments come just a few days after Gruden had stated that he envisions Guice being a first and second down type of tailback due to his ability to impact the running game. The fact that he has quickly earned that recognition from his head coach could go a long way in helping him secure a significant role in the offense in the 2018 campaign.
His presence also pushes him possibly in the discussion to earn the starting job competing against the likes of Samaje Perine and Chris Thompson over the offseason in training camp and the preseason. His limitations as a receiver out of the backfield at this point could hamper the amount of impact he could make, it could help him work toward a more defined role out of the backfield in his rookie campaign.
Guice has been compared to the likes of Oakland Raiders former Pro Bowl Marshawn Lynch due to the hard-nosed running style that could bode well for him at the next level. If he is able to prove that can provide anywhere near that type of presence and production, it could lead to him being a key part of the offense.
Follow Us
Subscribe