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Come Fan with UsThursday, August 6, 2026

Roy Helu injury: Redskins RB expects to be ready for training camp

Roy Helu is recovering from surgery, and he hopes to return to his 2011 form.

Derick E. Hingle-US PRESSWIRE

Washington Redskins running back Roy Helu played in just two games last season, missing most of the year due to leg injuries. The third-year veteran is recovering well and believes he'll be back in action by the start of training camp in August, according to Zac Boyer of the Fredericksburg (Va.) Free Lance-Star.

More on the Redskins: Hogs Haven

Helu had surgery in February to clean up cartilage in his left foot, finally addressing the issue that led to his lost season. After dealing with pain for the entire 2012 season, he’ll try to find the kind of success he had in 2011, his rookie campaign.

During that season, Helu was Washington’s best running back, as he compiled 640 yards and two touchdowns on 151 carries, averaging 4.2 yards per rush. The Redskins selected him in the fourth round of the 2011 NFL Draft, so he immediately paid dividends.

But after Helu's injuries last year, Washington added some insurance in the backfield. The Redskins drafted two running backs in April, selecting Chris Thompson in the fifth round and Jawan Jamison in the seventh. Helu knows it's just business.

“I can’t control that, and I can’t blame them,” he said. “I got into the procedure late, so you’ve got to plan [for the future]. I don’t blame our organization at all.”

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