Washington Redskins running back Alfred Morris had a pretty simple goal when he entered the NFL back in 2012. Though it has been four years already, that goal has remained the same for the pending free agent.
"When I first came into the league, no matter what team I went to, I just wanted to do my whole career with the same team," Morris told ESPN's John Keim. "That's still my goal. I would love to return, but a lot goes into that. I haven't thought about that. You all keep bringing it up, but we'll see what happens."
Free agency couldn't be coming at a worse time for Morris, who posted career lows in carries (202), rushing yards (751), yards per carry (3.7) and rushing touchdowns (1) this past season. Though he picked it up late in the season - rushing for 100 yards in the regular season finale and averaging 4.5 YPC against the Green Bay Packers in last week's playoff loss - it's unknown where the Redskins stand on re-signing Morris.
Washington loves what Morris brings as a professional and in the locker room. But they want more of a playmaker at the position, which is why they invested a third-round pick into Matt Jones in 2015. There are some within the organization who believe Morris peaked during his first three seasons and may be worn down from his 1,078 career carries. He did average a career-low 1.45 yards after contact this past season.
Fullback Darrel Young is also headed for the open market this offseason and it's unlikely the Skins bring back both of them. Though Young played a career low 107 snaps, his value as a blocker is significant. For what it's worth, he also wants to return to the team next season.
"Absolutely," he said. "I love it here. This is a place I've called home for seven years. Just because my role decreased...we're winning and that's what it's about at the end of the day. I enjoyed the ride and the journey and I wouldn't take one of these days back for anything. I found out what character was this year, overcoming adversity and doing a lot of the little things."
We'll see what the going rate for both players is when free agency officially opens in March.
