Brian Robinson Jr. is entering the most pivotal season of his football life. The Washington Commanders are giving the running back another shot to prove himself in a contract year. How he performs will have significant ramifications attached.
And according to one prominent Commanders staff member, there's some extra urgency within the former Alabama standout over Washington's early offseason workouts.
Most fans wanted the Commanders to draft a young, explosive backfield threat from a rich crop of college prospects. Adam Peters did just that, but he waited until the seventh round before taking Jacory Croskey-Merritt at No. 245 overall.
Just what impact Croskey-Merritt can have on the offensive rotation remains to be seen. Either way, the pressure is firmly on Robinson to produce the goods and become the workhorse Washington needs to get over the hump.
It's a high-stakes situation, there's no getting away from that. However, offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury lauded the renewed focus he's bringing to the table with some added incentives attached.
"Yeah, he's been really focused. The biggest thing that came out of last year I think was that any of the guys that we asked to go in and play, played at a really high level. B-Rob's a guy who has played an incredibly high level. I thought early in the year when he was really healthy, he was what we expect him to be, and the focus this offseason has been great. He knows what this year means to him and can mean to us when he plays at that level."
Kliff Kingsbury via NFL.com
The Commanders have four running backs in the last year of their respective contracts. Peters will let things play out before deciding on further action. It's extremely unlikely anyone will get extended ahead of time, and anyone who gets a reprieve needs to earn it.
That includes Robinson. The 2022 third-round pick blazed an early trail last season before tailing off once the wear and tear began to take its toll. Washington is banking on its improved offensive line to make things easier for the ground attack. But if the same inconsistencies rear their ugly head, the Commanders have a simple decision to make.
Kingsbury believes Robinson knows what's on the line. The gifted play-caller also thinks there is more to come. If he's proven right, another financial commitment from the Commanders is well within the player's capabilities.
Robinson is talented, but the time for half-measures is over. He has to deliver throughout an entire campaign. Otherwise, the Commanders will find someone who can.
