Commanders Trade Brian Robinson Jr. to the 49ers
The Washington Commanders have agreed to trade running back Brian Robinson Jr. to the San Francisco 49ers in exchange for a sixth-round pick in the 2026 draft. This decision marks a significant change for both teams.
The absence of Robinson Jr. in Monday’s preseason game against Cincinnati was a clear sign of the end of his time with the Commanders, who intended to release him if they couldn’t find a team willing to negotiate.
The Commanders’ search for a trade for Robinson Jr. intensified earlier this month, motivated in part by the depth the team has developed at the running back position.
This move will allow the Commanders to save $3.3 million in salary cap space.
On the other hand, the 49ers reinforce their running back position, which has been affected by injuries. With the arrival of Robinson Jr., valuable depth is added to the team.
San Francisco has had significant losses in its running back group, including Jordan James, who has missed a large part of the camp, Patrick Taylor Jr., on the injured list, and the recent return of Isaac Guerendo after an injury.
Although Christian McCaffrey has had a smooth camp, Robinson Jr. will bring a power dimension that could be absent in the Niners’ backfield.
Commanders coach Dan Quinn and offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury highlighted the improvement in running back depth during the summer, suggesting the possibility of a split with Robinson Jr.
The situation became evident when Robinson Jr. did not participate in the preseason game against Cincinnati, nor was he even present.
The Commanders could adopt a “running back by committee” approach. In Monday’s game, Chris Rodriguez and rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt were the primary running backs, both with standout performances.
Rodriguez had a 40-yard run, while Croskey-Merritt scored from 27 yards. In total, they combined for 17 carries and 108 yards.
The Commanders also have veteran Austin Ekeler and Jeremy McNichols.
Coach Quinn commented that the team considered the running back position to be one of their strengths for the season.
Robinson Jr.’s career in the NFL began in difficult circumstances. He was the victim of an attempted robbery on August 28, 2022, suffering a gunshot wound in Washington, D.C. Despite undergoing knee surgery, he returned to play 12 games, accumulating 797 yards and two touchdowns.
In 41 games with the Commanders, since he was drafted, Robinson Jr., 26 years old, has rushed for 2,329 yards. Last season, he achieved his personal best with 799 yards and eight touchdowns.
His career yards per carry average is 4.1, ranking 40th among running backs since he entered the league. He ranked 29th in yards after first contact, and his 10-yard run percentage (9.8) was 86th. However, he ranked 17th in yards per game (56.8).
