Washington Commanders running back Antonio Gibson burst onto the scene as a rookie in 2020 by rushing for 795 yards, averaging 4.5 yards per attempt and scoring 11 rushing touchdowns.
Analysts predicted an even bigger year for Gibson in 2021. However, while some of Gibson’s numbers improved, he battled a nagging injury all season long and struggled with fumbling issues in the first half of the season.
The good news from Gibson’s 2021 season is he did go over 1,000 yards rushing, and his receptions and receiving yards also increased. Most importantly, during Washington’s four-game winning streak in November, Gibson proved his value. In the four games, Gibson rushed for 358 yards and two touchdowns and had 14 receptions and another touchdown.
In the Week 10 win over the Buccaneers, Gibson ran with power and balance, moving the chains for at least two of Washington’s best drives of the 2021 season.
So, where does Gibson rank among the NFL’s top running backs?
After speaking with a combination of 50 coaches, scouts, executives and players, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN ranked the NFL’s top 10 running backs. Of course, Derrick Henry was No. 1.
Where was Gibson?
While he didn’t make the top 10, Gibson was among three players who received votes, along with Josh Jacobs [Raiders] and Miles Sanders [Eagles].
This is a critical season for Gibson. The Commanders drafted Brian Robinson Jr. in the third round of the 2022 NFL draft. Robinson isn’t in town to challenge Gibson. The coaches love Gibson. However, Washington brought him to compete in short-yardage situations and give Gibson a true backup who can carry the load if Gibson is banged up.
However, if Gibson’s fumbling issues persist, he will lose playing time. If Gibson cleans up the fumbling, he can land somewhere inside the top 10 one year from now.