In these final weeks before the regular season, the Washington Commanders made a slight change to their roster. With an abundance of options in the backfield, the front office had some tough decisions to make. In light of this, Brian Robinson Jr. found himself as the odd man out.
Robinson has been a key piece for the Commanders since being drafted in the third round three years ago. However, he is now embarking on a new journey in his career.
Last weekend, reports emerged that the Commanders have made Robinson available in trade talks. Despite his looming free agency, it didn’t take long for a team to bite. On Friday, it was revealed that Washington is sending the dual-threat back to the San Francisco 49ers in exchange for draft compensation.
Also read: Commanders Agree to Terms on Brian Robinson Jr. Trade: Report
Fan makes NBA comparison for Commanders’ Brin Robinson Jr. trade
In light of the Robinson Jr. trade, one fan decided to break the deal down in NBA terms. They went on to use a shocking comparison, saying it’s similar to when the Golden State Warriors cleared a path for Steph Curry to be their featured player.
For the Commanders, the player they are potentially clearing a path for is Jacory Croskey-Merritt. Since being drafted in the first round, his stock has increased tremendously ahead of his rookie campaign.
Through two preseason appearances, Croskey-Merritt is averaging just under four yards per carry. He currently has 70 yards on 18 rushing attempts along with one touchdown.
Also read: Ex-Player Sounds Off on Commanders’ ‘Stupid’ Terry McLaurin Saga
This fan’s comparison sets lofty expectations for Croskey-Merritt’s tenure with the Commanders. The Warriors handing Curry the reins paid off in a big way, as he blossomed into an all-time talent. On top of that, he was the face of Golden State’s dynasty that netted the franchise four championships.
Robinson’s departure paves a path for Croskey-Merritt, but he still has a way to go to be Washington’s top option in the backfield. The Commanders’ running back corps is still crowded, with Austin Ekeler headlining the group.
Commanders’ RB room with Brian Robinson Jr. traded away:
🏈Austin Ekeler
🏈Chris Rodriguez
🏈Bill Croskey-Merritt
🏈Jeremy McNichols
🏈Demetric Felton
🏈Kazmeir Allen https://t.co/dwGV5omrKY— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 22, 2025
Croskey-Merritt has made a strong first impression for the Commanders and has a chance to keep building momentum. On Saturday, Washington will play its final preseason game against the Baltimore Ravens. If Croskey-Merritt can put together another strong outing, he could continue climbing the depth chart ahead of Week 1.
For more Washington Commanders and NFL news, head over to Newsweek Sports.
Read the full article here