During training camp, Redskins.com will provide an in-depth look at the drafted rookies, both on and off the field. Today's spotlight is on Keith Marshall, a seventh-round pick.
Keith Marshall played college football at the University of Georgia, but not even the heart of the SEC could prepare him for his opening day of training camp at the Bon Secours Washington Redskins Training Center in Richmond, Va.
"It's crazy," Marshall said earlier this week. "We have a lot of fans in college, at Georgia, but it's crazy. We didn't have people like this come out to practice. So it's pretty awesome."
While Marshall may not be used to NFL crowds, he is used to playing with NFL caliber running backs. Marshall was a highly recruited prospect out of high school but forgivably fell behind Los Angeles Rams running back Todd Gurley and preseason Heisman candidate Nick Chubb on the depth chart.
Now making his own transition to the NFL, Marshall, who logged the fastest 40-yard dash of any running back at the 2016 NFL Combine, is happy to have teammates and coaches help him learn the game at the professional level.
"I'm at that point where I can help them all out, even helping Keith [Marshall] today with some simple things, and I think he's just still thinking a little too much," running back Chris Thompson said. "Being able to help him and the rest of the young guys out when we get together at practice today, it'll be good."
Thinking too much can often be an issue for rookies grappling with NFL playbooks, but Marshall is optimistic his experience at Georgia will help him learn the offensive system, especially with running backs coach Randy Jordan showing him the way.
"(Coach Jordan) is cool," Marshall said. "The main thing I like about him is he makes sure we understand concepts, not just what we have to do, but what the line's doing and the wide receivers and everything so we understand the whole picture."
With Marshall's speed, the whole picture may just be a blur.
Major Keys from the Rookies
**
Check out images of running back Keith Marshall during his first few months with the Washington Redskins.
Who are you listening to right now?**
"DJ Khaled's new album just came out, Gucci Mane just dropped a new album, Lil Uzi and always listening to Drake and Future."
What show do you binge watch on Netflix?
"To be honest, I already watched every show on Netflix so I don't have any new shows to watch. My favorite show ever is probably Prison Break."
How did relocating to Virginia go?
"I still haven't moved, have to make the team first before I figure out that stuff, but it's a lot like going from high school to college, just picking up and moving, don't know anybody here and trying to make the most of the situation."
What was the first thing you bought after signing your contract?
"I bought my dad some new golf clubs, bought my Mom a real good Mother's Day gift but other than that I saved all my money, man."
Is there anything that would surprise fans about transitioning to the NFL?
"Nah man, so far it's been good. It's a blessing to be here and I'm just trying to make the most of it."
