Team news: Washington Football Team

J.D. McKissic is listed as the No. 1 back with Antonio Gibson, Peyton Barber and Bryce Love lining up behind him.

As we've said numerous times, depth charts can't always be trusted and this could be a prime example. McKissic saw most of his playing time in passing situations while with the Seahawks and Lions, so there figures to be room for several backs to see playing time for Washington. Gibson, of course, has got a ton of press over the past several weeks, especially with the release of Adrian Peterson. Gibson will likely prove to be the player to watch over the long term and should end up being the back to own here.

Washington RB Bryce Love continues to improve despite not sticking out during training camp, according to John Keim of ESPN. "There's a feeling that in a couple of months he could perhaps get close to what he once was at Stanford," wrote Keim. "Early on in Washington's season, it's likely he would have a reduced role."

Head coach Ron Rivera was quoted as saying, "Don't fall asleep on Bryce."

The news is not ideal short-term, but it is good to get confirmation from Washington's coaching staff that Love is showing signs of the runner he was at Stanford. Love's injury history is a major red flag that will only be mitigated by staying off the injury report and aided with strong play when given the opportunity. His value appears to be as a bye-week fill-in as long as he is on the field, but the optimism is welcomed.

Washington head coach Ron Rivera praised RB Peyton Barber Friday. "I always liked him in Tampa when I coached in Carolina," said Rivera. "Barber gets the tough extra yard, very physical, good in pass protection and "sneaky" as a receiver."

Rivera wanted to get Barber some love as it seems every back in D.C. has the past few weeks. Barber should be behind Antonio Gibson and Bryce Love for touches while mixing in with the entire group for pass-catching work. Barber's value comes with an injury.

In an interview with Josina Anderson, Adrian Peterson pointed out that rookie RB Antonio Gibson will be 'the guy' for Washington. "This system really fits him," Peterson told Anderson. "I feel like I can do that pony style too, more as a receiving back. We were all working on it, but they really want one main guy to do it and they drafted Gibson for it."

That rocket you see in the sky is Gibson's ADP rising after Peterson's conversation with Anderson. Gibson can flash as a pass catcher and could be league-winner if he figures out how to utilize his talent as a running back.