“With the 98th pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, the Washington Commanders select Brian Robinson Jr. RB, Alabama,” said Washington DE Chase Young.
Robinson became the second Alabama player drafted by Washington in this draft as Phidarian Mathis (DT) was chosen at No. 47 in the second round.
Robinson had played little at Alabama having to wait his turn behind great college backs Damien Harris, Joshua Jacobs and Najee Harris. But when provided the opportunity his senior season, Robinson gained 1,343 yards in 271 carries for a 5.0 yards per carry average and 14 rushing touchdowns. He also caught 35 passes for 296 yards (8.5 yards per reception) and 2 receiving touchdowns.
.@BrianR_4: confirmed hard to tackle
(
: @SECNetwork)
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) April 30, 2022
Observed him in games this season, being decisive in making that one-cut, attacking the defense style of running. Robinson was measured at 6-foot-2, 225 pounds. He ran a 4.53 40 and recorded a 30″ vertical leap.
He was first-team All-SEC in 2021, and in a huge national semifinal game against Cincinnati rushed 26 times for 204 yards.
Washington usually maintains three running backs on their 53-man roster. The front runners for the three spots will be Antonio Gibson and J.D. McKissic. Robinson will need to beat out Jaret Patterson, and Jonathan Williams for the final spot. McKissic is coming off of a neck injury as well.
It also would appear, if Gibson is not extended or demands too much money after his fourth season, Robinson is being drafted (3rd round) to develop and prepare himself for the possibility of succeeding Gibson as the primary back.
Washington came into the draft not owning a third-round selection, having traded it to the Indianapolis Colts in the Carson Wentz deal.
The Commanders then made the first trade of this 2022 NFL draft when they traded their No. 16 overall choice to the New Orleans Saints for the Saints’ No. 16, 98 and 120 selections.