An in-depth look at Washington Redskins running back Stephen Davis:

Notes
Considered the next Bo Jackson when he arrived at Auburn. Had a fine college career. Was not chosen until the fourth round in 1996 because he was considered an upright, narrow-based runner who fumbled too much and did not always run hard.

	A stint at fullback last season helped toughen up Stephen Davis.

Served as a backup in Washington in 1996. Saw considerable action as the Redskins' No. 2 running back in '97. Moved to fullback in '98 after injuries to others and really improved his toughness. Went back to tailback in '99 and has become one of the best backs in the league.

Positives
Has always been a big, fast, powerful back with good vision. But now he has learned how to run with his pads low and with a wider base and how to finish his runs. Has developed into a fine goal-line and short-yardage runner. Is starting to show he can take a licking and keep on ticking. Becoming a featured-type back. Seems to have overcome his problem with fumbles.

Negatives
Is not very elusive or all that shifty. Durability will be a question until he carries 300 times in a year without missing much time because of injury.

Summary
Davis could do for the Redskins this year what Jamal Anderson did for the Falcons last season if he can stay healthy and play with the intensity and determination he showed in the first five games of the '99 season.

Material from Pro Football Weekly.
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