ASHBURN — Aware his role would involve more pass catching, running back Chris Thompson looked around for tips in training camp. Options of teammates to watch included wide receiver DeSean Jackson, one of NFL’s most prolific big-play threats. Wide receiver Pierre Garcon led the league in pass receptions in 2013. Second-year receiver Ryan Grant was often touted for his route-running precision.
But, it was tight end Jordan Reed who Thompson locked in on and wanted to emulate. He took mental notes on how Reed set up linebackers and safeties who tried to defend him. Reed’s ability, so long clear but stifled by injury, has moved beyond the eyes of Thompson.