Brian Robinson Jr. has impressed Commanders coaches in surprising area

The Washington Commanders expect their 2022 draft class to play significant roles as rookies, especially in the case of wide receiver Jahan Dotson, defensive lineman Phiadrian Mathis and running back Brian Robinson Jr.

Dotson has nabbed all the headlines this offseason, and rightfully so. As the team’s first-round pick and part of a loaded WR class, Dotson has managed to exceed expectations (with ease) over his first couple months with the team.

We haven’t heard as much buzz surrounding Mathis and Robinson, but all signs point to the second- and third-round selections getting a ton of playing time this year.

Robinson, however, got a chance to play with the first-team offense with Antonio Gibson restricted to the side field to start camp. Gibson has since returned to practice, but his absence allowed Robinson to get some valuable reps and the former Alabama star has certainly made an impression on the coaching staff.

Robinson’s potential as a downhill runner is apparent, but the comfortability he’s displayed as a pass-catcher has really impressed coaches.

Commanders rookie running back Brian Robinson Jr. has impressed as a pass-catcher this offseason.

Commanders RBs coach Randy Jordan told NBC Sports Washington that Robinson’s pass-catching ability has been a “pleasant surprise.” At Alabama, Robinson gained a reputation of a bruising rusher who welcomes contact. In 2021 alone, he compiled 891 rushing yards after contact and forced 79 missed tackles.

That skillset will be a valuable asset for Washington’s offense in 2022 and beyond, but his aptness as a receiver will make him a headache for opposing defenses.

"“This guy is 6-foot-2. He’s 220 (pounds). He’s a big guy to get down on the grass for a safety or a corner,” Jordan added. “So if he can continue to develop that in his game, then he can be a really good player for us.”"

It’s one thing for the Commanders’ running backs coach to take notice of Robinson’s receiving potential. Jordan works with the RB room every day so he has a front-row seat to how Robinson performs in individual drills. However, the second-round pick has flashed in team drills, too, so Ron Rivera has seen plenty of what he brings to the table. Safe to say the head coach has been impressed.

"“That’s one of the exciting things like a big guy like him out in space: You get him in 1-on-1, you make a cut and the next thing you know you’re into the second level and now you have corners and smaller DBs having to tackle him,” Rivera told reporters Monday. “That’s a pretty good matchup for us.”"

Drafted as a power back who could take pressure off Gibson after he finished fourth in the NFL with 258 carries last season, these quotes indicate Robinson will have more than just a one-dimensional role for Washington in 2022.

Of course, that’s what Robinson expects of himself. He wasn’t a featured part of Alabama’s passing game in his final season, but his 35 catches for 296 yards and two touchdowns — to go with his 1,343 rushing yards and 14 rushing scores — are nothing to sneeze at.

"“I just got to continue to show that’s part of my game that I possess,” Robinson said after Monday’s practice. “Continue to run routes, continue to catch the ball consistently, continue to just keep working on it. I feel like I’ll be able to prove all that when the time comes. I’ll be ready for it for sure.”"

So far, so good for the promising rookie.