The most impressive receiver in camp hauled in a long pass the other day, running yet another precise route, beating yet another defensive back. He’s clicked with the young quarterback, who trusts his whereabouts. And still … The most impressive receiver in camp might not catch 20 balls this season. That is, if the past couple years are any indication.
Which is fine with James Thrash. Honestly.
Recommended Stories
“I can’t control that,” Thrash said. “I’ve been in the game for a while and I’ve seen guys who don’t handle it the right way.
To go to the coaches and say, ‘I need the ball more,’ really never works.
As long as I prove I can do my job, everything else will work out.”
The Redskins could use another productive receiver. Brandon Lloyd is coming off one of the least productive seasons ever by a starting wideout, with 23 catches and no touchdowns. Antwaan Randle El, who also is having a strong camp, could become that guy. But, based on training camp practices, Thrash could develop into a safety net for Campbell.
“James is having an exceptional camp,” Redskins associate head coach/offense Al Saunders said. “He’s a member of the Able family: reliable, dependable, accountable and, most of all, available. He is the most underrated player on offense.”
The Redskins have not looked his way much the past three years. After averaging 53 – catches from 2000-03 – the last three of which were in Philadelphia – Thrash, entering his 11th year, has averaged just 14.3 receptions the past three years.
Even Redskins coach Joe Gibbs said he sometimes wonders why they didn’t throw more to Thrash, nicknamed “one speed” because he always goes full speed. But he also knows of Thrash’s value to special teams, and as a blocker offensively.
“To his detriment, he plays so well on so many things,” Gibbs said. “If he were just your starter [at receiver], he could have a great year.” Said receiver Santana Moss, “When we need him, he’s always there.” Thrash, limited in practice Thursday because of a groin injury, is a role model for the undrafted free agents.
Once upon a time, he was one of them. In 1997 Thrash, cut that offseason by Philadelphia, returned kickoff for a touchdown against the Titans, Saturday’s preseason opponent, and opened the eyes of the coaches.
Eventually, he landed a roster spot. “It seems like yesterday,” Thrash said of the kickoff return. “That memory was amazing. It will stick with me for the rest of my life.”
