Washington Redskins training camp: Roy Helu establishes himself as third-down back
By Brian Spaen
Among some of the highlights during the Washington Redskins’ practice on Monday was the defense coming together with all of its starters for the first time and running back Roy Helu, Jr. being impressive in multiple phases.
John Keim of ESPN observed the Redskins’ practice, giving praise to Helu for his work on pass protection and catching from the backfield among his duties of establishing the run.
"It’s hard to imagine anyone but Roy Helu ending up as the third-down back for Washington. He’s done a decent job in pass protection and he remains their best receiving threat out of the backfield. He also had a nice run today, running with excellent pad level through the hole."
Helu suffered a setback last season after losing the starting battle and getting behind rookie Alfred Morris on the depth chart. His season ended on September 26th after suffering turf toe and other lower leg injuries.
Another highlight includes rookie safety Phillip Thomas, who’s starting to look more comfortable in his position.
"Thomas did do a good job in the box on one read, coming up closer to the line based on the formation. He read the quarterback’s eyes, forced a tight window and subsequent incomplete pass with his coverage. Thomas is slowly coming along with his play in the box."