Matt Jones reports to Redskins mini-camp; agent asks for his release

The Redskins (over)drafted Matt Jones in 2015, taking the former Florida RB in the 3rd round. Jones split time with fan favorite Alfred Morris his rookie year, and replaced him as the team’s starter the following season when Morris signed with the Dallas Cowboys. Unfortunately for Jones and the team, that was short-lived, and his fumbling problem dropped him to the bottom of the running back depth chart. In his rookie season, Jones fumbled the ball 5 times, losing 4 of them. Last season he fumbled 3 times, losing 2 before getting pulled from the lineup.

The Redskins looked to Robert Kelley as their starter last season, and he will try to maintain that role this year. Washington drafted Samaje Perine in the 4th round, and was rumored to be attempting to trade Jones during the draft. The writing was on the wall and Jones chose to skip the team’s voluntary OTAs.

John Keim reported two weeks ago that Jones wanted a release or trade. Jones and his agent Hadley Engelhard made a plan to get a release or trade from the Redskins, but Washington will keep him for now. They “asked very politely” for a release, knowing his future is bleak with the Redskins.

"Let's move on," Engelhard said. "We're hoping Bruce sees the light and does the gentleman thing and release Matt."

Jones reported to mandatory mini-camp, avoiding fines, and participated in team drills. Jay Gruden said it would be hard to move a guy like Rob Kelley who has there and worked hard to earn playing time. The Redskins have a lot of options at RB, and right now, Matt Jones is just injury insurance.