The running back posted a heartfelt message on his Instagram account to the Washington Redskins organization and its fans, as he will head into the new league year as an unrestricted free agent for the first time in his career.
The caption to the above photo reads:
"Man the last 4 years have flown by. I've met a lot of great people, made a lot of great memories, and was given countless opportunities to live my dream and better myself and my family. With the unknown getting closer I just wanted to take a second and thank the entire @Redskins organization for an amazing four years. From Mr. Dan Snyder to Mrs. B.J Blanchard who works the front desk and always greets everyone with a smile. No matter what happens I will always be apart of #RedskinsNation and a special thanks to all the fans and their abundance of love, support, and loyalty y'all make this game what is #HTTR"
Not many had even heard of Morris when the Redskins took him in the sixth round out of Florida Atlantic in the 2012 NFL Draft — but, as it turned out, he was a perfect fit in the team's zone running scheme.
Literally working his way from the bottom of the depth chart by the start of training camp his rookie year to being the team's starting running back Week 1 against the New Orleans Saints, Morris proved time and time again to be about as durable as they come at the position, having never missed a start in the four full seasons since.
A two-time Pro Bowl selection, Morris in 2012 broke the Redskins' single-season rushing record with 1,613 yards. He saved his best performance for the most crucial of times that year, running 33 times for 200 yards and three touchdowns Washington's 28-18, Week 17 victory over the Dallas Cowboys that earned the team its first NFC East title since 1999.
In his four years with the team, Morris has ran for 4,713 yards (fifth in team history) with 29 rushing touchdowns (seventh), many of which ended with his signature "home run swing" celebration.
As far as late-round draft picks go — or any additions to the roster, for that matter — Morris has certainly been a grand slam for the Redskins. And as well as Morris is received by his fellow teammates and coaches, he's perhaps left an even bigger mark off the field during his time in Washington.
The Redskins' 2013 Walter Payton Man of the Year award nominee, Morris became a staple at many Washington Redskins Charitable Foundation events since his selection in 2012, knowing full well that simply coming out and showing you care, even a little bit, can impact a child for the rest of their life. Morris made sure to do this, and then some, the past four years.
While reports are the Redskins and Morris could explore the possibility of a return in 2016, you can bet there will be several teams interested in his services once free agency begins at 4 p.m. ET March 9.
Whatever happens, best of luck to a man who has represented the burgundy and gold the right way from the very start.
.
.
.
