RICHMOND, Va. -- It’s not the way Washington Redskins receiver Josh Doctson wanted to start his career. He also isn’t worried that his tweaked Achilles will be a problem.
Still, it’s an issue that Doctson has been dealing with since he hurt it in the Redskins' rookie minicamp in early May. It kept him out of all the spring practices and minicamp and it landed him on the physically unable to perform list. He can be taken off the list at any time, but it’s still uncertain how much longer he’ll be sidelined.
“It’s kind of a lingering issue,” Doctson said, “and we had some things done over the break to help speed up the process.
“I’m not really concerned because I know my body, and I’ve never really had lingering problems. I heal fast.”
Redskins coach Jay Gruden said they're being cautious with Doctson, knowing the goal is to get him ready for a long season. That's one reason why they had him go through more treatments recently when the Achilles wasn't responding the way they had hoped.
"We're going to keep him down until he's 100 percent," Gruden said. "He's not far away, but it is a significant deal. With his explosion, we don't want it to reoccur."
The Redskins want Doctson to back up starting receivers DeSean Jackson and Pierre Garcon, so there’s not a pressing need for him to return. However, he also was the only receiver they would have drafted in the first round and do expect him to contribute. He can be a red zone threat, while also providing others with a breather.
“I don’t know that I’m discouraged,” Redskins quarterback Kirk Cousins said. “I guess you’re a little disappointed that he’s not healthy, but that’s the way the NFL works. He’s a great talent and can help us, so we’re excited not just for this week or next week but for the long haul of what he could do for the Redskins.”
This is a new situation for Doctson. He said he’s dealt with some minor issues, such as his hamstring. And he broke his wrist this past season at TCU in a 49-29 loss to Oklahoma State last November. He tried to play in the next game, but had to exit and missed the final two regular-season games plus the bowl game.
“I always heal up quick, so I’m not really worried about it,” Doctson said.
Doctson said he was going to test his Achilles out Thursday afternoon. For now, though, he said he’s listening to teammates and coaches who remind him not to rush back.
“It’s going to be a long year,” he said. “So I’ve got plenty of time.”