Should the Commanders seriously consider drafting Bijan Robinson?

Should the Washington Commanders seriously consider drafting running back Bijan Robinson at No. 16 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft?

With the legal tampering period finally getting underway tomorrow, attention turns to which free agents are coming into the fold. The Washington Commanders have a lot on their plate in terms of re-signing players and bringing new additions into the fold, which could lay the foundations for what will hopefully be a strong campaign for the franchise in 2023.

Those within the building are also in the mid-level stages of pre-draft planning. The needs are evident right now, but that might change depending on what transpires in the coming weeks before it’s time to finalize their shortlist of college recruits.

Focusing on the offensive line, cornerback, and linebacker would be prudent. But if the Commanders can get themselves in a position to get themselves a luxury pick at No. 16 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, then Bijan Robinson is another surprising option.

Commanders should avoid Bijan Robinson temptation in 2023

Robinson is far and away the best running back prospect entering the draft this year. He has all the makings of an instant star and according to recent rumors, the Commanders are among the favorites to secure his services.

This seems strange considering the presence of Antonio Gibson, Brian Robinson Jr., and J.D. McKissic. So upon further examination, acquiring a running back would be among the least needy positions on the Commanders heading into the offseason.

That’s not a knock on the former Texas standout, who is an exceptional talent and looks ready to make his presence felt immediately. But the Commanders have more than enough at the position and Eric Bieniemy recently declared that the skill position options played a leading role in his decision to leave the Kansas City Chiefs.

Robinson joining Washington seems like a non-starter. However, if they sign three starting offensive linemen and a talented veteran cornerback in free agency, it’s a different story.

There hasn’t been confirmed interest in Robinson in terms of meetings during the NFL Scouting Combine. Although that could change depending on what signings the team can attain beforehand.

Adding Robinson would be a huge asset for Bieniemy and the Commanders to call upon. Even if this would hinder their ability to improve other groups that are in desperate need of upgrades.

Rolling with the options they have seems far more likely. The Commanders could add another running back, but it could be a free-agent familiar with Bieniemy or a mid-to-late round draft prospect rather than taking one in the first round.

This would be nothing short of astonishing. Robinson might be the next great dual-threat back and has an All-Pro ceiling, but it’s a time for prioritizing needs rather than focusing on yet another skill position star within a unit that has more than enough to put up the numbers needed.

Only time will tell, obviously. There isn’t much money to go around right now and considering how expensive free-agent offensive linemen and cornerbacks normally are, finding long-term, cheaper options via the draft is the smartest move.

Robinson is arguably the most talented prospect in this year’s draft factoring everything into the equation. But that shouldn’t be enough to convince the Commanders unless some major acquisitions are sought before the big night.