The Washington Commanders enter the 2024-25 season with low expectations based on the transition of their franchise. Over the last two years, the organization went through a sale, new coaching staff, and lawsuit settlements.
Washington drafted Jayden Daniels who will hopefully blossom into their franchise quarterback. Washington hired Dan Quinn to take on the reigns of head coach. The team brought over Joe Whit Jr. from Dallas as the new defensive coordinator. Kliff Kingsbury will be the new offensive coordinator and has big shoes to fill.
Kingsbury’s air raid offense has received more criticism than praise during his head coaching days in Arizona. During his first season, the Arizona Cardinals had 396 rush attempts. Defenses know he wants to get the ball out of his QB’s hands quickly and run an up-tempo offense.
Kyler Murray’s rookie year was successful because of Kingsbury’s offensive scheme but it did impact the running game. However, the team may have a potential running back trio that can change the offensive calling of the former Cardinals head coach.
Commanders Possible Running Trio Could Be Lethal
Commanders Primary Back Bryan Robinson Jr.
Kingsbury should be able to enhance his play calling in terms of the running game because of the possible trio of Bryan Robinson Jr., Austin Ekeler, and rookie Michael Wiley. Robinson Jr., finished the 2023-24 season averaging 4.1 yards per carry and captured a total 733 rushing yards (31st in league).
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The Washington running back, tied for 24th in the league for all running backs with 5 touchdowns. He is a physical runner who runs north and south and does not avoid contact.
Robinson Jr. will sell the play actions for Jayden Daniels (assuming he starts) and he is a solid blocker. He anticipates the hole openings and can time his cuts at the last minute to hit the gap effectively. Not to mention, BRJ’s ability to field passes and catch on hot routes makes transitioning to Kingsbury’s offense easier.
Secondary Back Austin Ekeler
The addition of Ekeler will give Robinson Jr. a reprieve and the team depth at the running back slot. Ekeler carried the pass-heavy Los Angeles Charges in 2023 and finished the season with rushing 629 yards (38th in the league) from 179 carries.
Ekeler’s ability to catch out the backfield and hold his blocks in blitz situations will help the Commanders. He is quick and will add versatility to the offense and he will have a running back room that will allow him to rest and not overcompensate his energy.
The eight-year running back has played his entire career with the Charges who have been pass-first over the last decade. He received passes from Phillip Rivers and Justin Herbert. Ekeler has 3,884 receiving yards and will be a security blanket for Daniels (assuming he starts).
The X-factor Michael Wiley
The final running back that could create a three-headed attack is rookie Michael Wiley out of Arizona. He has exceptional hands and a nose for contact. Four out of the five seasons he spent at Arizona, he has over 10 receptions.
Out of 336 attempts, Wiley ran for 1,712 yards, averaged 5.1 yards per carry, and scored 16 touchdowns. From the line of scrimmage, he has run for 2,862 yards and can run after contact.
Wiley’s engine will be an asset for the Commanders and his ability to catch in and out of the backfield will add to Kingsbury’s arsenal.
Washington will be able to incorporate the run game while giving Robinson Jr. a chance to breathe. Last season, Washington finished 27th in the league in rushing with 1,592 rushing yards. If Kingsbury can incorporate these three running backs and refine his air raid attack, this could be a lethal trio.
Main Photo: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
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