In a stunning twist of events, trade rumors are swirling around Brian Robinson Jr., leaving his future with the Washington Commanders hanging in the balance. The 26-year-old running back, who has been a critical component of the Commanders’ offense for the last three seasons, was notably absent from the team’s preseason loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. Head coach Dan Quinn confirmed that he and general manager Adam Peters delivered the news to Robinson on Sunday regarding his exclusion from the game, emphasizing the chaotic nature of the current season. “It’s just a lot of moving parts,” Quinn stated. “This time of year, those things take place and … it’s my responsibility to let the team know whenever I can so they’re not hearing any information from anywhere else.”
Robinson’s situation has become increasingly precarious as the Commanders appear to be shifting their focus to younger talent. Washington has been impressed by the emergence of rookie Jacory “Bill” Croskey-Merritt and third-year running back Chris Rodriguez, both of whom have shown significant promise during training camp. Croskey-Merritt, in particular, has been turning heads with his explosive performance, including a dazzling 27-yard touchdown run against Cincinnati that showcased his speed and agility. The seventh-round pick made a remarkable impact, hitting the lane with authority and demonstrating the potential to become the team’s primary back as they approach their season opener against the New York Giants on September 7.
Meanwhile, Rodriguez has also proven his worth by starting the game with a jaw-dropping 40-yard run, ultimately finishing with a team-high 62 rushing yards on just six carries. His ability to charge through defenses reinforces the notion that while Robinson has been a reliable player for the Commanders, the franchise is now leaning towards a more dynamic and cost-effective backfield.
Robinson’s journey to the NFL is nothing short of inspiring. After overcoming a life-threatening gunshot wound, he has managed to emerge as the leading rusher for the Commanders over the past three seasons, amassing 2,329 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns throughout his career. However, as he enters the final year of his rookie contract with a non-guaranteed salary of $3.4 million and a cap hit of $3.6 million for 2025, the numbers begin to tell a different story.
The Commanders’ roster also includes veteran Austin Ekeler, who, despite his age and extensive mileage, remains a viable running-back option, alongside Jeremy McNichols, considered one of the best blitz-pickup backs in the league. As the Commanders weigh their options, Robinson’s role is increasingly seen as a luxury rather than a necessity. With the clock ticking down to finalize the 53-man roster, the possibility of a trade or release looms large, signaling that Robinson’s chapter with the Commanders may be nearing its end. Fans and analysts alike are left on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting what could be a monumental shift in the Commanders’ roster dynamics.
