Last year, Brian Robinson emerged on the scene at training camp as a third-round pick, winning the starting running back role for the Washington Commanders over Antonio Gibson. However, what should have been an incredible rookie season was marred by a robbery attempt that the former Alabama standout is lucky to have survived.
Robinson was shot a day after the Commanders’ preseason finale by two teenagers in Washington, D.C. He suffered gunshot wounds to his knee and hip, requiring surgery. Fortunately, he survived with no major ligament or bone damage.
His injuries, however, forced him to miss the season’s first four games. He made an inspiring return in Week 5 and held on as the lead running back throughout the season.
This year, Robinson is nearly a year removed from the incident. He’s ready to take charge of the running back position under new offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy.
On Friday following Washington’s third training camp practice, Robinson admitted that he never once felt the same last year after getting shot, per Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post. His body and knee were going through “all types of things.”
Robinson said fans should expect more from him in comparison to last year. He feels like “night and day” from last year.
“I feel more like myself every day,” Robinson added.
Brian Robinson rushed for 797 yards with a 3.9 yards per carry average. He also had two rushing touchdowns, adding nine catches for 60 yards and a touchdown in the passing game.
This year, Robinson feels he can play any role Bieniemy will ask of him. If he can get back to form like he was at Alabama, the Commanders could have one of the more formidable backfields in the league.
Gibson remains an explosive threat. Robinson adds the power and ability to be a one-cut runner. Together they could ease the demand for second-year quarterback Sam Howell. Everyone involved will welcome a healthy Robinson this go around.
