Maybe one week down the line the Redskins won't have to make a move at running back. But so far in 2018, doing something in the backfield every seven days or so feels almost required.

This time around, the transaction of note is adding Mack Brown to the practice squad. Brown was in D.C. from 2015-2017 before spending the latter half of last year and the offseason this year with the Vikings.

Sitting down in the familiar locker room at the 'Skins' facility in Ashburn, Va., the 27-year-old expressed relief to have an NFL job again after being let go by Minnesota in early September.

"I'm just thankful to be back playing football," he said. "Ready to get my game back."

Most practice squad moves don't warrant a blog these days, considering how often those players are picked up and dropped. But Brown's arrival feels a bit more significant once you tie it to Adrian Peterson's sore ankle.

While Peterson has been perhaps the best part of the Redskins' campaign so far, there's always a question about how long he can stay on the field and keep producing. And now he's dinged up, though he said Monday he doesn't expect to miss the matchup in the Superdome.

After Wednesday's practice, Jay Gruden explained why he's happy that Brown is back in town.

"Mack is a good guy to have on our practice squad because he knows the system pretty much and we know what he can do with the football," the head coach said. "Having Mack Brown out there with Adrian's ankle the way that it is, is a good get for us. Just for a little insurance for us down the line if we need it. Hopefully we don’t have to use him, but if we do, Mack will be ready."

Of course, Gruden will turn to Chris Thompson and Kapri Bibbs should something happen to Peterson. Then there's Samaje Perine, too. But it's not outrageous to imagine Brown suiting up on game days at some point down the line. He's well-liked by the organization.

Aside from an increase in run-pass option plays, Brown agreed with Gruden's assessment regarding the RB's familiarity with the offense. He also admitted that Peterson is his all-time favorite player and he can't wait to learn from him in many ways both on and off the field.

However, there is one thing that's already bothering him in his second stint with the Burgundy and Gold: His new number, 47. That could use some work, according to Brown.

"I'm definitely trying to change this," he said. "Shoulder pads big, cleats are big, helmet's too big. I feel like Rudy."

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