Redskins, Gruden encouraged by Josh Doctson’s offseason progress – Washington Post

INDIANAPOLIS Washington Redskins wide receiver Josh Doctson has made noticeable progress over the last month, and its been an encouraging sign for Redskins Coach Jay Gruden this offseason.

Doctson, the teams first-round pick in 2016, began running on the field in February and has posted videos on his Snapchat account over the last week. Its a significant step for the TCU product after playing just two games during his rookie season because Doctson injured both of his Achilles tendons last year.

[As pivotal offseason begins, Redskins foundation is shaking]

Josh is really working hard, man, and thats half the battle, Gruden said at the NFL Combine on Wednesday. We fully anticipate him being healthy. Thats obviously out of our control, but hes going to have a major impact on this offense once he gets healthy. And thats the biggest thing for him is can he take the strides necessary to get healthy, not overworking it, but continue to keep pushing himself, which I see him in the weight room all the time working hard. Hes working with [head strength & conditioning coach Chad Englehart], and hes working with [head athletic trainer Larry Hess]. Theyll get him right, and hell get himself right.

[Pierre Garcon: I havent heard anything from the Redskins]

The 22ndoverall pick had rehabbed to strengthen both Achilles tendons up until he was cleared to run by team doctors and trainers. At the Senior Bowl in January, Gruden said February would be an important month for Doctson and his progress this offseason. He uploaded videos last Wednesday and on Monday from Redskins Park catching passes on the field.

Doctson initially strained his right Achilles tendon during spring practices, and he was held out for the remainder of those practices and mandatory minicamp. He started training camp on the physically unable to perform list. Although he didnt participate in camp or any of Washingtons preseason games, the franchise decided to activate him off the physically unable to perform list and place him on the 53-man roster to start the season. He played in Washingtons first two games, gaining 66 yards on two receptions, but he was held out in Week 3 against the New York Giants because of the injury.

[Chill out, Redskins fans. The Scot McCloughan situation is perfectly normal.]

The Redskins werent able to specifically diagnose Doctsons injury, and he later dealt with pain in his left Achilles tendon. He was placed on injured reserve during Week 7.

I think the progress is being made that we want to see, really, but obviously theres still a long way to go, Gruden said. I just want to make sure that hes not in a boot in February still. Now, were seeing him do some things on Snapchat. Heck, I follow him. I dont even know what that is, but its good to see him out there doing some football drills.

View post:

Redskins, Gruden encouraged by Josh Doctson's offseason progress - Washington Post