3 pros and cons to the Commanders drafting Bijan Robinson in 2023

Commanders don’t urgently need Bijan Robinson

Drafting Bijan Robinson has intrigue if nothing else. But this also ignores the potential already within the Washington Commanders’ running back room.

The team got some decent production from rookie Brian Robinson Jr. in difficult circumstances last season. Considering the third-round selection suffered gunshot wounds during an attempted robbery, his performance levels were nothing short of staggering and indicate there is plenty more to come with a less dramatic offseason under his belt.

Washington also has Antonio Gibson on the books, who is a nice change of pace option that could thrive as a pass-catcher under Eric Bieniemy. There is also added incentive from the player’s perspective entering a contract year.

While adding another running back is a strong possibility, it should come a little later in the process rather than selecting the Texas product with their first pick. There is always value to be had when it comes to drafting college prospects – the Commanders just have to find the right guy that fits within their scheme.

Robinson is going to be great right away, there’s no getting away from that. But this is not going to be with the Commanders unless there is a dramatic shift in approach from influential figures within the franchise.