Brian Robinson Jr. was a solid pro who overcame adversity to become a solid contributor for the Washington Commanders. But once any player falls out of favor with general manager Adam Peters, their situation only ends one way.
This happened relatively quickly. Robinson went from the starting running back to being traded to the San Francisco 49ers for a sixth-round pick in a matter of days. Peters is aggressive and ruthless in his quest to improve the roster, and this is the latest example.
However, one NFL analyst questioned whether the Commanders got enough in return for someone with proven regular-season production in a competitive setting.
NFL analyst questions whether Commanders should have got more for Brian Robinson Jr.
Tyler Sullivan from CBS Sports gave the Commanders a C grade for the trade. The analyst acknowledged that Peters was never going to get much for an out-of-favor player who'd have been gone in 2026. Even so, he thought that this was probably more about giving others involvement rather than anything from a compensation standpoint.
"It feels like Washington could've received a higher Day 3 pick (a fifth?) in return. [Brian] Robinson's 4.3 yards per carry average last year (in 14 games played) was a career-high. His best performance came in the divisional round upset over Detroit, where he rushed for 77 yards and two touchdowns on 15 carries. Again, that wasn't going to propel his trade value through the roof, but it's a rather subdued return for a player who started 40 games over the last three years (including playoffs). Really, this move may be more about paving the way for rookie standout Jacory Croskey-Merritt (and Austin Ekeler to a degree) than the compensation."
Tyler Sullivan
Robinson was surplus to requirements. The Commanders have increased confidence in Jacory Croskey-Merritt and Chris Rodriguez Jr. They also have Austin Ekeler to carry the burden until the young duo gets acclimated to increased duties.
The inability to generate explosive plays ended up being Robinson's undoing. Offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury praised the player for his improved application over the summer, but it wasn't enough. Now, he'll get the chance to provide something different to the Niners, taking some much-needed pressure off All-Pro Christian McCaffrey along the way.
If others wilt under the raised pressure, this is going to look disastrous. But if the backfield committee provides an injection of energy this offense sorely lacked alongside quarterback Jayden Daniels at times last season, it'll be yet another masterstroke from Peters during his drastic roster makeover.
There is no real in-between. Trading Robinson was a risk, but the rewards will be substantial if it pays off.
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