Commanders Trade Brian Robinson Jr. to 49ers in Preseason Deal

On August 22, 2025, the Washington Commanders and San Francisco 49ers agreed to a trade. The Commanders sent running back Brian Robinson Jr. to the 49ers. In exchange, they got a sixth-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

ESPN insider Adam Schefter reports that the 49ers are adding a 26-year-old former Alabama star. This move aims to strengthen their backfield depth behind Christian McCaffrey. Robinson will go to Santa Clara for a physical with the 49ers’ medical team. Once he is cleared, the deal will be official.

Robinson has been Washington’s top runner for the last three seasons. In 2024, he made 187 carries, racking up 799 yards and eight touchdowns. He averaged 4.3 yards per carry. The Commanders had a lot of running backs and knew Robinson would be a free agent soon. They chose to trade him to gain draft picks rather than lose him for free.

San Francisco, facing injuries to key rushers, saw a chance to add a proven player. Robinson is a solid backup for McCaffrey. He offers extra support if there are more injuries at the position. Washington now has a committee led by Austin Ekeler, rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt, and Chris Rodriguez Jr.

This trade ends Robinson’s time in the capital. It also marks a fresh start in the Bay Area for the 2025 regular season. The Commanders will get the 2026 sixth-round pick when Robinson finishes his physical in San Francisco.