The Washington Commanders made significant alterations to their offense throughout a busy offseason for the franchise. Nobody expected those in power to sit on their hands after how things unfolded during their four-win campaign in 2023. However, an already established presence is emerging into an integral part of the team's strategy.
Dan Quinn is a respected head coach who wasted no time in improving standards. He stripped things down and worked on improving the fundamentals. It took a while for everything to sink in, but things looked improved during their last-gasp win over the New York Giants.
One of the more notable performances came from Brian Robinson Jr. Big things are expected of the running back after catching the eye in difficult circumstances last time around. He's got the physical profile needed to be a difference-maker, which will help quarterback Jayden Daniels enormously as he goes in search of taking the league by storm in Year 1 of his professional career.
Commanders leaned on Brian Robinson Jr. heavily, and he delivered
Robinson developed some encouraging chemistry with Daniels over the summer. He's growing in confidence with every passing week. His performance in Washington's regular-season home opener was arguably the best of his blossoming young career so far.
Robinson was nothing short of relentless in rushing the football. He was explosive and poised. The notable strides made with contact balance this offseason were evident throughout. The 2022 third-round selection didn't find the end zone thanks in no small part to offensive line penalties inside the 20-yard line, but he was a leading contributor to end Washington's nine-game losing run dating back to last season.
The former Alabama star eventually finished with 133 rushing yards from 17 carries. Robinson averaged an astonishing 7.8 yards per rush, which is an elite standard whichever way one looks at it. There was also a lot to like about his willingness as a pass blocker when the situation dictated.
Dan Quinn was thrilled with Robinson's production and attitude following the contest. If the coaching staff had any doubts regarding his importance, they should have crystal clear clarity right now. This is an ascending player benefitting greatly from being the top dog. Having someone like veteran Austin Ekeler to help him along is clearly having the desired effect.
This imposing start was proof positive that the Commanders made the right call by increasing Robinson's responsibilities under the new regime. He can be a significant asset. This sequence of outstanding moments set the tone for what's hopefully to come during the campaign.
There will be turbulent times, of course. The Commanders are working almost from the bottom up and need to build back confidence gradually. But if Robinson and Daniels continue to blossom on the field, the better Washington's chances will be.
It'll be interesting to see how things go for Robinson through a 17-game slate. But this was another fine example of how much he's flourishing in Year 3 of his professional career.
