NFL insider makes bold prediction around Commanders running back duo

If the Washington Commanders want to ensure progress arrives under the new regime in 2024, it must be a collective effort. There's been more unity and collaboration throughout the offseason. This was desperately needed to get everyone on the same page in pursuit of raising one of the league's most historic franchises off the basement and back into contention.

Nobody is sure what to expect from the Commanders. That might be something that works in their favor, especially over the opening few weeks before teams get a good indication of how they go about their business.

Having a dynamic signal-caller such as Jayden Daniels will help enormously. However, one NFL insider highlighted the quarterback's backfield partners as something that could potentially cause a stir during the 2024 campaign.

NFL insider tips Commanders running back duo to thrive in 2024

Dan Graziano from ESPN outlined the importance of Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler to the team's plans in 2024. He expects Daniels to lean on them heavily. He also wouldn't be surprised if the running-back tandem gained 100 catches in the passing game between them along the way.

"The Commanders are fired up about rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels and believe he can have a big season as a thrower and a runner. But there are questions about the offensive line and the receiver group behind Terry McLaurin. While rookie receiver Luke McCaffrey and rookie tight end Ben Sinnott work to get up to speed, expect Daniels to try to get the ball into the hands of his running backs and let them try to make plays with it. [Brian] Robinson and [Austin] Ekeler had 36 and 51 catches, respectively, last season."

- Dan Graziano, ESPN

This seems far-fetched. That said, it's not out of the realm of possibility by any stretch.

Ekeler's ability in the passing game is renowned. He;'s secured 440 receptions for 3,884 receiving yards and 30 touchdowns over his seven-year career to date. Expect offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury to utilize this asset frequently to give Daniels a prominent check-down option when things aren't developing as expected downfield.

One cannot ignore Robinson's potential contribution in this area, either. The former third-round selection out of Alabama made notable strides as a pass-catcher in 2023, bringing in 83.7 percent of his targets for 368 receiving yards and four scores. That's a solid foundation from which to build with a more prolific quarterback under center.

Big things are expected of Daniels. He was the No. 2 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft - the man expected to propel this storied organization to heights not seen for decades. His smooth transition this offseason only raised enthusiasm, but he cannot do it alone.

The Commanders can relax safe in the knowledge they have a dependable running back double act capable of picking up the slack and setting the tone. Keeping defenses honest within a balanced attack is a conundrum previous play-caller Eric Bieniemy couldn't solve. Kingsbury cannot make the same mistake.

Robinson and Ekeler will be expecting a heavy workload between them this season. The Commanders would be wise to give this duo all they can handle.

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