Washington Commanders running back Brian Robinson Jr. took a big step in his career in 2023. After missing the first four games of his NFL career in 2022 after suffering gunshot wounds in an attempted carjacking, Robinson somehow was able to return in Week 5 and have a solid rookie season.
Even more remarkable is that Robinson was never 100% but still managed to rush for 797 yards and score three touchdowns in 12 games.
Robinson was better overall in 2023 despite fewer rushing yards. In 15 games, he averaged 4.1 yards per attempt and ran for 733 yards and five touchdowns. But it was his work in the passing game where Robinson flexed his versatility. He caught 36 passes for 368 yards and four more touchdowns.
Robinson would have easily gone over 1,000 rushing yards if former offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy had committed to the run more. Washington was last in the NFL in rushing attempts.
Bieniemy is gone. Enter Kliff Kingsbury. While the former Arizona Cardinals head coach is known more for his connection to the Air Raid offense, Kingsbury does run the ball. And even better news for the Commanders and Kingsbury, they hired former Chargers head coach Anthony Lynn away from the San Francisco 49ers as the new running backs coach and run game coordinator.
Lynn is one of the most respected coaches in the NFL and is known for his work with the running game. He played for Mike Shanahan and spent the last two seasons under Kyle Shanahan. Now, he brings that expertise to Washington to help Kingsbury.
Lynn is excited to be in Washington, and he’s also a big fan of Robinson.
On Wednesday, Washington’s assistants met with the local media and discussed numerous topics, and Lynn asked about the Commanders’ star back.
Anthony Lynn is a big Brian Robinson fan:
“I studied Brian coming out of Alabama. I know Brian very well and I like him. i know what his running style is and what he can do and areas where I can help him. He wants to be good.”
— Grant Paulsen (@granthpaulsen) February 21, 2024
If healthy, Robinson is about to have his best NFL season yet. He’s been excellent through two seasons despite facing different obstacles. His growth in the passing game will help him stay on the field for three downs next season. And Lynn will give the Commanders a competent running game.
You can also expect new general manager Adam Peters to invest heavily in the offensive line this offseason. Additionally, Robinson’s former backfield mate Antonio Gibson is scheduled to be a free agent. Washington will bring in another back, but Robinson is the unquestioned starter in 2024.