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Washington Commanders running back Brian Robinson has been a popular name in the fantasy football community during the preseason. The Commanders used a third-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft (98th overall) on the former Alabama running back.
Robinson had to wait his turn at Alabama. However, Robinson shined once he became the starter in 2021. He had over 1,300 rushing yards, 14 rushing touchdowns, and averaged five yards per rushing attempt in his final season.
When the Commanders drafted Robinson, the exception was for him to help lighten Antonio Gibson’s workload. However, Robinson has been the best running back for the Commanders, while Gibson has struggled in the preseason. Will Robinson replace Gibson as the Week 1 starter?
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Is Brian Robinson Going to Start for the Commanders?
The Commanders haven’t made an official announcement. However, many believe Robinson will earn the starter role come Week 1. He has been far and away the best running back through the first two preseason games. Furthermore, Robinson started the second preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs after Gibson got the start in the preseason opener.
Robinson has 14 rushing attempts in the first two preseason games, leading the team. He also has put together a solid 4.1 yards per rushing attempt average. Furthermore, Robinson has displayed reliable hands in the passing game.
Meanwhile, Gibson has struggled in the preseason. He has averaged a miserable 0.8 yards per rushing attempt on six attempts. More importantly, he fumbled in Washington’s first preseason game and got benched. Robinson then entered the game and scored the Commanders' first touchdown of the preseason.
Where Should I Draft Brian Robinson in Fantasy Football?
Even if Robinson earns the starting role, fantasy players shouldn’t expect him to turn into an RB1. Gibson will remain part of the running back rotation and could steal back the starting job if Robinson begins to struggle. Furthermore, J.D. McKissic will have a role on third downs and in the two-minute drill. Thus, Robinson’s fantasy upside is limited until an injury happens to Gibson or McKissic.
Currently, Gibson has an ADP of 63.4 as the 23rd running back off the board, while Robinson has an ADP of 155.1 as the 54th running back. However, Gibson is the RB24 in the RotoBaller fantasy rankings with a mid-fifth-round draft target. Meanwhile, Robinson is the RB46 in the rankings with a mid-11th-round draft target.
Gibson has moved down in my rankings the past two weeks while Robinson is on the rise. Fantasy players should pass on Gibson at his current ADP and target Robinson later in their drafts. He likely won’t turn into a league winner, but Robinson is the far better value given his draft price.
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