5 players who could follow Brian Johnson to the Commanders
By Dean Jones
![Brian Johnson Brian Johnson](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_crop,w_6862,h_3859,x_122,y_590/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/images/GettyImages/mmsport/61/01hp4wnmc7txs6gh513j.jpg)
Commanders could sign D'Andre Swift
The Washington Commanders didn't establish the run effectively under Eric Bieniemy last season. This brought significant complications and piled way too much pressure on quarterback Sam Howell. It's a mistake Kliff Kingsbury and the new regime cannot make.
Brian Robinson Jr. and Chris Rodriguez Jr. did enough to suggest they could be a useful tandem. Antonio Gibson is a free agent and might not return. In this scenario, the Commanders need another capable performer who can assist in a dual-threat capacity.
This would be on the ambitious side, but D'Andre Swift had the best statistical season of his professional career under Brian Johnson last season. He went over 1,000 rushing yards. He secured 1,263 all-purpose yards and six touchdowns in total. This puts him in a strong position regarding an extension or if he ends up hitting the open market.
Paying running backs is a dying art around the NFL. Teams are wary of the potential complications after taking severe punishment throughout their early careers. Swift has less tread on his tires than most. This would also place him among a committee to increase the chances of staying fresh.
In all honesty, the Commanders will probably identify someone cheaper via the draft if Gibson doesn't get an extended stay. But the potential of a one-two punch with Swift and Robinson - coupled with Rodriguez also shouldering the load when required - would be an incredible comfort blanket for a young quarterback.
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