Carlos Hyde rumors: 5 best fits in NFL free agency

TAMPA, FL – NOVEMBER 25: The helmet of a Washington Redskins player rests on the field during warm ups against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at the Raymond James Stadium on November 25, 2007 in Tampa, Florida. The Bucs won 19-13. (Photo by Al Messerschmidt/Getty Images)

3. Washington Redskins

The Washington Redskins have finally moved on from the two year drama of not signing quarterback Kirk Cousins to a long term contract a few weeks ago when they traded for former Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith. Now that that portion of the offense is locked down, they need to focus on their backfield and try to improve it. Chris Thompson is a star talent but has always had trouble staying healthy. In fact, he is recovering from a fairly gruesome knee injury during this offseason.

Even if he manages to come back at full strength, Washington can’t help but wonder how long until he gets hurt again. Samaje Perine could still be productive and it’s not always a good move to judge from a rookie campaign. However, he had injury and fumbling issues of his own this past season. Even at Oklahoma, he shared duties with Joe Mixon.

Hyde would give Washington a 300-touch back that they could trust. He only has fumbled nine times in his four year career, which is an excellent mark. Smith is a better quarterback than he gets credit for but he does have his limitations. The offense as a whole is going to work a lot better with a strong running game.

When the offensive line is healthy, they’re capable of being a top flight unit. Washington would be a good spot for Hyde to finally crack the 1,000-yard barrier as the main back while Thompson and Perine chipped in. Given Washington’s receiving corps is Jamison Crowder, Josh Doctson, and not much else, they should focus on improving the running game as much as they can.