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Commanders sit Robinson in preseason as backfield plans take shape
Washington rests Robinson in the preseason while it explores trades and tests a crowded backfield.
Washington rests Robinson in the preseason as the team weighs trades and a crowded backfield.
Commanders hold Brian Robinson Jr. out as backfield plan takes shape
Washington Commanders running back Brian Robinson Jr. will not play in Monday nights preseason game against the Cincinnati Bengals. The move could signal the end of his three seasons with the franchise as Washington weighs potential trades; if no suitor is found, he could be released. In his place, the coaching staff plans to rotate younger backs, with third-year Chris Rodriguez Jr. and rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt getting added work in the backfield. The team has talked up depth at running back, a point echoed by offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury who has highlighted a crowded group that may lead to a running back by committee approach.
The backfield discussion comes as Washington surveys its roster and considers ways to balance present needs with future plans. Robinsons early career included a life altering shooting in 2022, yet he returned to rush for 797 yards and two touchdowns in his first full season. Through three seasons with the Commanders, he has 2,329 rushing yards and a career high of 799 yards in a single season, underscoring the caliber of player the team is weighing in roster decisions.
Key Takeaways
"All six or seven guys in there have a place in this league"
Kingsbury on the backfield competition
"They all have dynamic traits, all have things to do really well and guys when they had their opportunity have played at a high level"
Kingsbury praising the backs
"It’s a deep group and we just got to see how it shakes out"
Kingsbury describing the rotation
"They have a lot of running back depth"
Kingsbury summarizing the roster
The move to bench Robinson signals a broader shift toward depth over a single workhorse at running back. Washington is testing a pipeline of younger backs while keeping veteran options on the table, a strategy that crowds carries and raises the stakes for Rodriguez, Croskey-Merritt, and McNichols. This approach reflects a wider NFL trend: teams prefer flexible backs who can contribute in different roles, even if it means risking short term churn.
If trades do not materialize, the decision could test fan patience and raise questions about the teams commitment to stability. The Commanders appear to be prioritizing future flexibility and cost control, even as critics argue that a trusted veteran can provide leadership and consistency in a tough season ahead.
Highlights
- Depth is the real headline this season
- Roster moves test who wants it most
- A backfield by committee sounds smart until it costs a starter
- When the future is unsettled today the fans watch the clock
Backfield roster churn could trigger backlash and budget questions
Benching a veteran while weighing trades may draw fan scrutiny and questions about the teams long term plan. The shift toward youth and depth also interacts with budgeting and future cap considerations.
The clock is ticking on these roster decisions as the season approaches.
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