Brian Robinson Jr. - Commanders RB
The Washington Commanders did nothing to improve their running back options this offseason. Adam Peters could change that at some stage during the 2025 NFL Draft.
This is a deep class for running back prospects. Some blue-chip, potential superstars could be taken relatively early in the process. Several come with tremendous promise further down the pecking order. Ignoring such a rich crop would be foolish from Peters' perspective, so fans are expecting the Commanders to add one more capable performer into the mix.
What that means for those already around is anyone's guess. Much will depend on the skill set of any running back drafted by Washington, but they cannot go into the campaign standing pat. Not after the ground game regressed considerably over the second half of 2024 and into the playoffs.
This brings Brian Robinson Jr. under the microscope. The former third-round pick is a solid ground-and-pound backfield threat capable of gaining hard yards in between the tackles. There are limitations, but he's got some decent production to call upon after a luckless start to his professional journey.
Robinson tends to waver as the season progresses. The wear and tear takes an obvious toll, which results in less explosiveness and a failure to absorb contact effectively. This is something the Commanders must take into account as part of their long-term planning.
It's also worth remembering that Robinson is heading into the final year of his deal. Paying running backs on second contracts is risky business, especially for those with the Alabama graduate's trajectory. Peters is always thinking two steps ahead, so he'll know better than anyone that another option to place alongside quarterback Jayden Daniels is among his most pressing priorities.
Whether this makes Robinson expendable heading into the 2025 campaign is anyone's guess. He's a good player and is loved in the locker room. He's got scheme familiarity and is a useful asset in the red zone. But if another team wants to pay the going rate (or above it) to acquire him, Peters would be foolish not to consider the possibility.
Again, it seems unlikely. The Commanders like Robinson and teams will be examining college prospects with less tread on their tires over a three-year professional who's susceptible to falling off from a punishment standpoint. But it's an interesting dynamic to monitor at the very least.
That doesn't mean Robinson's future is secure if he sticks around, far from it. A big effort is needed to confirm his Commanders' status beyond the upcoming campaign. That much is painfully obvious.