Matt Jones Injury: Updates on Redskins RB's Shoulder and Return

Joseph ZuckerAug 19, 2016

Washington Redskins running back Matt Jones exited the Aug. 19 preseason contest against the New York Jets with a separated shoulder. However, he is ready to return.

Continue for updates.

Jones Active vs. Steelers

Monday, Sept. 12

The Redskins announced Jones is ready to play against Pittsburgh in Week 1.

Latest on Jones' Practice Status

Friday, Sept. 9

The Redskins announced Jones was a full participant in Friday's practice.

Jones Comments on Recovery

Monday, Sept. 5

Jones told reporters his shoulder "feels awesome" and that he's been "banging it around and is in a great spot."

"I'm feeling great right now," Jones told reporters on Aug. 22. "From a scale of one to 10, probably like a two right now. It healed up fast."

Gruden Comments on Jones' Injury

Monday, Aug. 22

Redskins head coach Jay Gruden told reporters that Jones is out for the rest of the preseason, noting the running back has already made "great strides" in his recovery. Gruden noted that Jones was diagnosed with a second-degree separation of the AC joint.

Gruden added that he has "high hopes" Jones will be ready for the regular season.

Jones Hoping to Build on Solid Rookie Campaign

Washington spent a third-round draft pick on Jones in 2015, and he delivered solid numbers in his rookie season. He didn't unseat incumbent starting running back Alfred Morris, but he finished with 490 yards rushing and three touchdowns on 144 carries.

Of course, the bulk of Jones' contributions came in Week 2 against the St. Louis Rams, when he ran for 123 yards and two touchdowns.

Washington liked what it saw from Jones enough to make him the starter ahead of the 2016 season after Morris signed with the Dallas Cowboys. The 23-year-old has all of the tools to thrive in the role, but he must stay healthy to reap the benefits.

Washington made the playoffs last year despite having one of the worst rushing attacks in the league. Some improvement is necessary if the team hopes to match that success in 2016.

Opposing defenses won't take quarterback Kirk Cousins lightly for a second year in a row. By focusing more on stopping the passing game, teams will make Jones and his fellow running backs shoulder more of the load.