Fri, Aug 22, 2025 at 12:35pm

BRIAN ROBINSON SENT TO SAN FRANCISCO

The San Francisco 49ers acquired running back Brian Robinson from the Washington Commanders for a sixth-round draft pick in 2026.

What does it give the San Francisco 49ers
When people suggest that NFL running backs are undervalued, this is what they mean. Robinson, Washington's starting running back, was moved to the 49ers mainly because he was going to become a free agent after 2025. With the Niners, Robinson will help back up franchise running back Christian McCaffrey, who is both old for a running back and very much prone to injury.

What does it give the Washington Commanders
This move is all about money, specifically about how National Football League franchises refuse to pay out big contracts to starting running backs. It seems to be a universal philosophy, which explains why Washington was only able to acquire a sixth-rounder for their starting running back. Still, this move does not make a whole lot of sense from anywhere outside of NFL circles.

Fantasy impact
This deal nearly destroys Robinson's fantasy value for 2025, although he could be a fantastic option in 2027 if he replaces McCaffrey as San Francisco's starting running back. Until then, Robinson should be avoided now that he is a backup. This deal also hurts 49ers backup running back Isaac Guerendo, while it helps Washington's Austin Ekeler and rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt