Brian Robinson Jr. - Commanders RB
Fans were clamoring for the Washington Commanders to address the running back position this offseason. Adam Peters brought in one new addition, but the front office leader remains confident in the options that contributed during the previous campaign.
That's a contentious issue among the fan base. They saw how the ground game regressed over the second half of 2024 and into the playoffs. They didn't want the same occuring again, which would pile extra strain on quarterback Jayden Daniels.
Aside from seventh-round pick Jacory Croskey-Merritt, the Commanders are standing pat. They believe that with their offensive line improvements throughout a busy offseason, the running backs available can keep things ticking over nicely.
It's a big vote of confidence in Brian Robinson Jr., who's set to lead the backfield again in 2025. The former Alabama standout began last season extremely well before tailing off dramatically. When the running lanes diminished, he found life difficult. However, the Commanders are betting that more ferocity on the offensive line can help him excel.
Robinson doesn't need any extra motivation heading into the campaign. He's heard the criticism and is no doubt eager to silence his doubters. This is also the final year of his rookie deal, so performing well might be enough to get another financial commitment from the Commanders.
Deebo Samuel Sr. - Commanders WR
Adam Peters' aggressive offseason began with a blockbuster trade for wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. This sent shockwaves through the league and proved the Commanders were not going to sit on their hands in pursuit of becoming a perennial contender.
Things turned stale between Samuel and the San Francisco 49ers in 2024. The team struggled to cope with several key injuries, and there was a distinct lack of offensive rhythm. With some high-profile names up for extensions, general manager John Lynch and the player mutually agreed that his future lay elsewhere.
Most thought the Niners would release Samuel. Peters had other ideas, such as sending a fifth-round selection to his old employers to jump the queue.
That raised eyebrows, with some claiming Samuel is on the slide performance-wise. San Francisco ate more than $34 million in dead cap money to part ways with the former second-round pick — a sign they agree with this notion.
Peters knows the player well, so Commanders fans should trust his judgment. He reworked his contract to include more guaranteed money and some extra incentives. Washington also hired Wes Welker, who played an instrumental role in transforming the versatile weapon into an All-Pro performer with the Niners.
If Samuel seizes this exciting challenge and thrives alongside Terry McLaurin, the Commanders will be in great shape.