Is Commanders RB Brian Robinson Jr. Underappreciated?

The Washington Commanders' second-year back was certainly a fan and media favorite due to his ability to overcome adversity in his rookie season, but is his play on the field being underappreciated in the process?

The Washington Commanders seemed to have found a steal in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft when they selected Alabama running back Brian Robinson Jr. 

It didn't take long for Robinson to take the inside track on being the Commanders' primary back heading into the regular season, but the young back was shot and injured in a botched robbery attempt, stealing the first four games of his rookie season from him in the process.

Just like that, Robinson's abilities were almost outshined by the story that surrounded him. But his play certainly spoke for itself once he got back on the field and up to speed.

"Robinson amazingly returned to average 17.1 carries (leading all rookies) and 66.4 yards per game (third among rookie backs)," NFL.com states when naming Robinson the most underappreciated member of Washington's roster. "While the volume is a clue to how much the Commanders immediately trusted the newbie, NGS shows that he also posted high percentage of 10-plus-yard runs against stacked boxes in the NFL (13.2%). With new OC Eric Bieniemy architecting the offense this season, those types of gains -- and the skills Robinson possesses creates them -- will be highly valued in Washington."

If we're being upfront and clear, we don't think Robinson is underappreciated by fans, the team, or even the media around the Commanders. 

This has to do with a different measurement. One that NFL.com explained in the column. 

"First, I calculate and then rank each player's season-long contribution metric by team (win share)," NFL.com writes. "After making those calculations, I factor in each player's salary by position...to add some context...Then I weight players drafted in Round 2 or later who have been to no more than two Pro Bowls who aren't in the top 10 at their position."

So this is much more a symbol of production and contribution versus compensation model than an emotional one. 

Coming into the 2023 NFL season Robinson will have the opportunity to stay at or near the top of his class while looking t rise up the ranks of the league's best backs altogether. 

And while he does so, his Washington teammates will be hoping that helps lead them to more wins. 

Meanwhile, Commanders fans will continue to celebrate the good story that Robinson is, and cheer on the talented player he's proving to be.

Find David Harrison on the Locked On Commanders podcast or text him directly at (202) 760-2188.

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