Brian Robinson Jr., born on March 22, 1999, has quickly become a central figure in the Washington Commanders’ offense. His journey to the NFL, marked by both on-field success at the University of Alabama and a remarkable personal triumph over adversity, has made him a compelling player to watch. As of late April 2025, Robinson stands as the lead running back for the Commanders, demonstrating a blend of power, vision, and determination that has endeared him to fans.
Collegiate Success at Alabama: Paving the Way
Robinson’s path to the NFL was paved by a successful and patient career at the University of Alabama (2017-2021). While initially playing behind other talented running backs, he steadily improved and showcased his potential. By his senior season in 2021, Robinson emerged as the featured back for the Crimson Tide. That year, he had a breakout season, rushing for 1,343 yards and 14 touchdowns on 271 carries.
He also added 35 receptions for 296 receiving yards and two touchdowns. His impressive performance earned him MVP honors in the 2021 Cotton Bowl Classic, where he set a school record for rushing yards in a bowl game (204). His contributions were crucial in Alabama’s dominant offense and their consistent contention for national championships.
NFL Draft and Immediate Impact with the Commanders
Brian Robinson Jr. was chosen in the third round (98th overall) of the 2022 NFL Draft by the Washington Commanders. While not a first or second-round pick, his powerful running style and SEC pedigree generated considerable excitement among the Commanders’ fanbase.
However, his journey took an unexpected and terrifying turn in August 2022 when he was tragically shot multiple times during an attempted carjacking. This life-threatening incident put his NFL career in jeopardy before it even truly began. Incredibly, Robinson displayed remarkable resilience and determination throughout his recovery process. He returned to the Commanders’ active roster in Week 5 of the 2022 season, a testament to his physical and mental fortitude.
Despite the ordeal, Robinson quickly established himself as a key component of the Commanders’ offense. In his rookie season, he led the team in rushing with 797 yards and two touchdowns in just 12 games. He also added nine receptions for 60 receiving yards and one touchdown, earning him the 2022 NFLPA Community MVP award for his inspiring comeback and community involvement.
Solidifying His Role as the Lead Back
Over the subsequent seasons, Brian Robinson Jr. has solidified his position as the Commanders’ primary ball carrier. In the 2023 season, he started 15 games, rushing for 733 yards and five touchdowns, while also becoming more involved in the passing game with 36 receptions for 368 yards and four touchdowns.
The 2024 season saw Robinson reach new career highs. In 14 games played, he rushed for 799 yards and eight touchdowns, demonstrating improved explosiveness and consistency. He also contributed 20 receptions for 159 receiving yards. His strong performances have made him a focal point of the Commanders’ offensive attack.
As of April 2025, Brian Robinson Jr. remains the starting running back for the Washington Commanders. Recent reports suggest that while the Commanders drafted running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt in the later rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft, Robinson is still expected to be the lead back. However, the team may look to incorporate Croskey-Merritt to provide depth and potentially spell Robinson at times.
What People Are Asking About Brian Robinson Jr. on YouTube and Google
Brian Robinson Jr.’s inspiring story and impactful play have generated significant online interest. Key search queries and topics of discussion include:
“Brian Robinson stats”: Fans consistently search for his latest season and career statistics, including rushing yards, touchdowns, receptions, and overall offensive production.
“Brian Robinson injury”: Following the traumatic shooting incident in 2022, there remains significant interest in his recovery journey, any lingering effects, and his current health status. Updates on any minor injuries sustained during games are also common searches.
“Brian Robinson college career”: Many fans want to learn more about his time at the University of Alabama, his stats, highlights, and his role in their championship-contending teams.
“Brian Robinson NFL Draft”: Information about his draft position (third round, 98th overall in 2022) and scouting reports leading up to the draft are frequently sought after.
“Brian Robinson current team”: As his role with the Commanders has solidified, this remains a straightforward but common search for those following his career.
“Brian Robinson highlights”: Fans search for video compilations of his best runs, touchdowns, and overall impactful plays in both college and the NFL.
“Brian Robinson carjacking”: Details surrounding the 2022 shooting incident and his courageous recovery continue to be a topic of interest and inspiration.
“Brian Robinson contract”: Information regarding his current rookie contract with the Commanders, including salary and duration, is also a common search.
“Brian Robinson fantasy football”: Fantasy football players are interested in his weekly projections, rankings, and overall value in fantasy leagues.
“Brian Robinson running style”: Analyses of his powerful and physical running style, his vision, and his ability to break tackles are often discussed.
FAQs
Could you provide some of Brian Robinson’s key statistics from the 2024 NFL season?
In the 2024 NFL season, Brian Robinson had 187 rushing attempts for 799 rushing yards, averaging 4.3 yards per carry, and scored 8 rushing touchdowns in 14 games. He also had 20 receptions for 159 receiving yards and 0 receiving touchdowns.
From which college did Brian Robinson play football and what were some of his achievements there?
Brian Robinson played college football for the Alabama Crimson Tide from 2017 to 2021. During his time at Alabama, he was a two-time CFP national champion (2017, 2020) and earned First-team All-SEC honors in 2021. In his final season, he rushed for 1,343 yards and 14 rushing touchdowns. He was also named the Most Valuable Player of the 2021 Cotton Bowl Classic after rushing for a school-record 204 yards in the bowl game.
Was Brian Robinson a high draft pick when he entered the NFL?
Brian Robinson was selected by the Washington Commanders in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft with the 98th overall pick.
Has Brian Robinson faced any significant injuries during his NFL career?
Yes, Brian Robinson dealt with a hamstring injury during the 2024 season, which caused him to be out for at least one game in Week 10 against the Steelers. He was also listed as questionable for a game in Week 9 due to a hamstring issue and for multiple games (Weeks 5-7) due to a knee injury. In a game against the Cowboys in Week 12 of the 2024 season, he exited with an apparent leg injury but later returned to the game.
In summary
Brian Robinson Jr.’s journey to becoming a key player for the Washington Commanders is a remarkable story of talent meeting unwavering resilience. Overcoming a life-threatening injury early in his professional career, he has not only returned to the field but has thrived as the team’s lead running back. His powerful running style, coupled with his improving skills in the passing game, makes him a valuable asset for the Commanders’ offense. As he continues his career in the NFL, Brian Robinson Jr. serves as an inspiration to many, demonstrating that even in the face of adversity, determination and talent can pave the way to success. His continued growth and impact on the Commanders will be closely watched by fans across the league.
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