BrianRobinson Jr.

News: 7 days agoRobinson rushed five times for 20 yards and wasn't targeted in Saturday's 20-17 preseason loss to the Jets.

Spin: Robinson and Austin Ekeler (two carries for seven yards) both mixed in on the opening drive, which was the only drive that rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels played. Daniels capped that possession with a three-yard touchdown run. Robinson faces increased competition for touches from Ekeler, and Daniels is also a threat to vulture goal-line rushing looks after scoring 21 rushing TDs in his last two years at LSU, but the ceiling for Washington's entire offense is far higher with Daniels at the helm than it was with Sam Howell under center last season. Washington's first-team offense could see more playing time in next Saturday's preseason game against the Dolphins.

ESPN Fantasy Projection: Robinson returns as Washington's lead rusher. Robinson started 15 games for the Commanders in 2023, averaging 13.2 fantasy points per game, the same figure as his new backfield competition, veteran Austin Ekeler. One man's emergence can equal another's downfall. Adding Ekeler hardly means Robinson loses all fantasy value, though. At 6-2, 230 pounds, the bruising Robinson may see extensive early down work and cede pass catching responsibilities, offering similar value. Even with Ekeler around, Robinson is talented enough to be a midround sleeper pick and RB3 choice.