Fantasy Insider Report: Commanders’ Choice for RB1 Should Be Clear

Washington has a solid pair of backs but Brian Robinson Jr. is the more dynamic of the two.

The Athlon Sports 2023 Fantasy Football Annual magazine reached out to team insiders at all 32 NFL clubs to ask them three key fantasy questions heading into the season. As we count down to training camp, Sports Illustrated will publish their answers here. Today’s team: Washington Commanders 

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What do you expect the split to be between RBs Antonio Gibson and Brian Robinson Jr.?
The Commanders boast arguably one of the best and most functional RB duos in the NFL, with Gibson’s pass-catching ability making him the ideal complement to Robinson’s bruising, workhorse style. But if you’re going to go with one of them, the top choice should be Robinson, who dazzled at times last year (his 82.5 overall offensive grade from Pro Football Focus ranked second among rookie RBs in 2022) and should get the bulk of the carries in 2023. Gibson could still be a good value pick, given his track record of receptions and ability to get into the end zone.

• 32 Teams in 32 Days: Washington Commanders

Who will emerge as the starting tight end?
The Commanders defied conventional wisdom by standing pat at tight end this offseason, which demonstrated a surprising level of faith in the team’s holdovers — particularly veteran Logan Thomas. Indeed, at his best, Thomas, who enjoyed a 72-reception breakout season in 2020, would be the clear choice. Thomas, however, has not been the same since an ACL tear in December 2021. The Commanders’ apparent faith in him would indicate they are convinced he will be 100% health.

Will we see playmakers in new roles under offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy?
Bieniemy’s version of the West Coast offense is designed to put the ball in the hands of the playmakers — like wideout Terry McLaurin. Still somewhat underrated in spite of three straight 1,000-yard seasons and a Pro Bowl selection in 2022, McLaurin has succeeded despite constant turnover at the QB position.

—Dave Sheinin, Washington Post

32 Teams in 32 Days