Portis Down, But Not Out

Skins looking for help for banged-up RB

By CHRIS NEEDHAM

Updated 11:30 AM EST, Tue, Oct 6, 2009

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Clinton Portis hasn't been himself this year. As if his meager running stats didn't demonstrate that, the fact that the Skins are now auditioning extra running backs tells you all you need to know.

The Skins are taking a look at former Titans running back Chris Henry.

Now before you think "Oh, no! Isn't that the guy who's had multiple arrests, DUIs, giving booze to kids, and multiple gun charges," relax. That's Wide Receiver Chris Henry. This Chris Henry was the one suspended four games for violating the league's banned substance policy. He's a much nicer sort of fellow, limiting his issues to those of self-abuse.

Offensive coordinator Sherm Smith coached Henry when they were both in Nashville.

Portis has had a mostly down season. As usual, he's been a bit banged up, especially after several years of a heavy workload.

Despite that, he had a solid game on Sunday, carrying the ball regularly even though he was a game-time decision. Portis' numbers didn't shine, but his steady carries helped take some of the burden off Campbell's shoulders.

Portis appeared to especially be bothered by the terrible FedEx turf, which is being re-sod this week. Several times he stumbled and fell just as it looked like he was going to carry it another 4-5 yards. Perhaps he would've had the breakout game everyone was hoping for with better ground under his feet.

Still, his teammates love him; they love his warrior spirit. Even if the results are there, nobody doubts that he's giving his all. Mike Sellers, speaking to the Times, had high praise: "[Portis] takes a beating. He missed a whole week of practice, but he came out and performed. God bless him."