In a move that caught many off guard last summer, Brian Robinson Jr. packed his bags from Washington and landed with the San Francisco 49ers, traded for a modest sixth-round pick in the 2026 draft. It was August 24, just days before the preseason wrapped up, and suddenly the running back who'd become a staple in the Commanders' backfield was headed west. Robinson, drafted in the third round back in 2022 out of Alabama, had racked up over 2,300 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns in his time with Washington—impressive numbers for a guy who overcame a near-fatal shooting incident early in his pro career. But with the Commanders reshaping their roster around quarterback Jayden Daniels, Robinson became expendable.
Now, three games into the 2025 season, he's carving out a role in Kyle Shanahan's high-powered offense. Against the Arizona Cardinals in Week 3, Robinson burst for 19 yards on just a handful of carries, showing that familiar burst and physicality that made him a fan favorite in D.C. Shanahan, never one to mince words, praised the pairing with Christian McCaffrey, calling Robinson a "true starting running back" who can hit holes hard and contribute in the passing game. Indeed, his 587 receiving yards from his Commanders days suggest he's more than just a power runner. Yet, it's not all smooth sailing; the 49ers' crowded backfield means Robinson's snaps are limited, hovering around 10-15 per game so far. Moreover, whispers of deeper integration persist, especially with McCaffrey nursing minor tweaks.
The trade itself raised eyebrows—Washington got draft capital, but lost a proven grinder who'd started 37 of 41 games. For Robinson, it's a fresh start in a contender's system, one that could elevate his game if injuries open doors. However, adapting to Shanahan's zone schemes hasn't been seamless; early fumbles in practice hinted at adjustment pains. Still, at 26, he's got the pedigree and resilience to push forward.
As the 49ers gear up for a tough NFC West slog, one wonders how much untapped potential Robinson holds in this reloaded lineup.