Evan Royster

Royster will be in the backup RB mix behind Alfred Morris and Roy Helu in Washington.

Royster started just twice last year, during the final two weeks of the season. He took full advantage, totaling 312 yards on only 46 touches. In limited work, he ended his rookie season with an impressive 5.9 YPC mark and proved plenty capable as a receiver. Roy Helu looks like the starter entering 2012, and Tim Hightower was also re-signed during the offseason. Neither is a sure thing, and were Royster to become the starter in Mike Shanahan’s system, especially with Robert Griffin taking over at QB, he has the upside to be a top-10 fantasy back. But another committee with unpredictable usage is the most likely outcome.

Royster was a sixth-round pick, and there’s no guarantee he even makes Washington’s roster. But the Redskins have an unsettled running back situation, and he’d hardly be the first unknown to make a major impact in coach Mike Shanahan’s system. Royster was a productive three-year starter in college with good size and patience, capable of effectively running inside. The Redskins’ RB battle is one to watch.