NFL

Morris replaced Evan Royster in the role, playing on 9-of-11 third downs. On four of those plays, he ran pass routes. "(Coach) told me he was going to give me an opportunity to do it, and I really am thankful because he's trying to help me become a complete back," Morris said. Although Alf ended up with just one catch, it's a promising sign for his overall value. The Redskins are committed to getting him on the field as much as possible. "If he can stay healthy and just keep on doing the things he's done, he will be a big-time back for a lot of years," coach Mike Shanahan said. "He's a special guy."