49ers acquire RB Brian Robinson Jr. in trade with Commanders

ESPN's Adam Schefter reports that the San Francisco 49ers have completed their second trade of the week, acquiring running back Brian Robinson Jr. from the Washington Commanders in exchange for a 2026 sixth-round draft pick. The team previously traded for former Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Skyy Moore.

Robinson joins a 49ers running back group led by Christian McCaffrey, the former NFL Offensive Player of the Year, and includes second-year back Isaac Guerendo. The team also drafted Jordan James in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, but the rookie is currently sidelined with a broken finger.

San Francisco's depth had been tested in recent weeks. Patrick Taylor Jr. (shoulder) was placed on injured reserve (IR), while undrafted rookie Corey Kiner (high-ankle sprain) reverted to the team's IR list after going unclaimed on waivers. Robinson's arrival provides much-needed stability for a unit looking to stay healthy and productive heading into the season.

The Commanders originally drafted Robinson in the third round out of Alabama in 2022. He proved to be a consistent contributor in Washington, rushing for 733 or more yards in each of his three NFL seasons. In 2024, Robinson posted a career-high 799 rushing yards and eight touchdowns on 187 carries, averaging 4.3 yards per attempt. The former Alabama running back was among the players who visited the 49ers heading into the 2022 NFL Draft.

Over his career, Robinson has totaled 2,329 rushing yards and 15 rushing touchdowns, while also adding 65 receptions for 587 receiving yards and five receiving touchdowns. His ability to contribute as both a rusher and receiver should make him a valuable addition to Kyle Shanahan's offense.

Robinson is entering the final year of his four-year rookie contract and is set to earn $3.4 million this season. However, the Commanders have reportedly agreed to take on some of that salary.