Washington Commanders running back Brian Robinson will not play in Monday night’s preseason game against the Cincinnati Bengals. According to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, Robinson and the team mutually agreed on his absence, as trade talks could determine his future before next week’s roster cutdown deadline.
Robinson Shows Reliability But Lacks Explosive Plays In An Injury-Delayed Career
Robinson has been a reliable contributor for Washington, rushing for 799 yards and eight touchdowns last season. Known for his grinding, physical style of play, he can pick up tough yards but has struggled to generate explosive plays, averaging just 4.1 yards per carry across his career.
A third-round pick from the team’s prior regime, Robinson’s NFL journey was initially delayed when he suffered a gunshot wound before his rookie season, sidelining him for four games. Over three seasons, he has accumulated 2,329 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns on 570 carries, though he has never surpassed 800 yards in a single year.
Commanders Weigh Robinson’s Uncertain Future As Younger Backs Push For Opportunities
With Robinson’s role in question, the Commanders may look to move him, though his trade value is reportedly modest. A later-round draft pick or pick swap is seen as the most likely return. If no trade partner emerges, it remains unclear whether Washington would keep him on the roster or consider releasing him outright.
The Commanders’ backfield is evolving, with veteran Austin Ekeler unlikely to handle a heavy workload at this stage of his career. Rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt has impressed in camp and could benefit from additional opportunities if Robinson departs. Other backs, including Chris Rodriguez Jr., Jeremy McNichols, Demetric Felton, and Kazmeir Allen, provide further depth as the team prepares for its second preseason matchup.
