The Washington Commanders are actively considering trading running back Brian Robinson Jr. as preseason trade rumors intensify. Robinson and the team mutually agreed that he would not participate in the preseason game against the Cincinnati Bengals, signaling significant movement around his future with the franchise.
NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo confirmed this arrangement, stating,
“Robinson Jr. mutually agrees with Commanders to not play in preseason game against Bengals on Monday amid trade speculation.”
This development underscores the ongoing discussions reportedly driven by the emergence of a promising rookie running back during training camp.
Rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt Emerges as a Potential Lead Back
The surprise storyline in Washington’s backfield is seventh-round rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt, whose strong performances in training camp have caught the attention of coaches and fans alike. Known for his quickness, agility, and ability to cut sharply, Croskey-Merritt has demonstrated considerable potential to carry the team’s rushing attack moving forward.
His rise is particularly impressive considering his background as a zero-star recruit out of high school. Croskey-Merritt rushed for 1,253 yards and 14 touchdowns at Alabama State before transferring to New Mexico, where he enjoyed a breakout season that highlighted his running capabilities.
Although he missed almost the entire 2024 season, Croskey-Merritt fits well into pro-style inside-zone and gap rushing schemes, making him a natural fit for the Commanders‘ system. While he hasn’t yet proven himself as a three-down back, his running style includes a somewhat upright posture and occasional hesitation navigating blocks, and his receiving skills require improvement. Thus, Austin Ekeler remains the preferred option on passing downs.
The Washington Commanders are building a strong run game, led by rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt, who could dominate their backfield for years to come. Watch out! pic.twitter.com/djpggbl8Pd
— Buddy Boy Bets (@Buddyboybets) July 28, 2025
Implications for Brian Robinson and the Trade Market
Brian Robinson Jr. has been a key contributor to the Commanders, accumulating 2,329 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns, supplemented by 65 receptions for 587 yards and five scores since 2022. Despite his productivity, the team’s confidence in Croskey-Merritt has made Robinson’s position less secure.
Robinson is in the final year of his contract, with a salary of $8.26 million due. The Commanders aim to recover some value through a trade rather than risk releasing him without compensation. However, the expected return is modest, likely falling between the fifth and seventh-round draft picks.
Several teams that need running back depth could express interest. The Chicago Bears and Houston Texans are among potential suitors, while the Los Angeles Chargers might also consider acquiring Robinson given head coach Jim Harbaugh’s preference for a deep running back rotation.
Despite his uncertain future in Washington, Robinson remains a talented player whose skills will be sought after by teams in need of a proven rusher.
What This Means for the Commanders’ Backfield and Future
The Commanders’ decision to lean on Jacory Croskey-Merritt signals a strategic shift toward developing younger talent in the running game. If traded, Robinson could provide the team with valuable draft assets to support other areas of their roster. Meanwhile, Croskey-Merritt’s progression may define Washington’s ground attack for the coming seasons.
How the trade discussions evolve and the rookie’s performance in the regular season will shape the Commanders’ offensive identity and depth chart moving forward.