In a potential blockbuster move, the Washington Commanders are considering replacing starting running back Brian Robinson Jr. with Saquon Barkley from the New York Giants. This move would be part of head coach Dan Quinn’s plan to establish a consistent ground game and improve the team’s offense. Justin Melo of the Draft Network suggests that signing Barkley would be a significant upgrade for the Commanders and could help an inexperienced rookie quarterback transition smoothly into the NFL.
New general manager Adam Peters is also in favor of adding Barkley to the roster, as he values dual-threat running backs. Barkley’s ability to contribute in the passing game sets him apart from Robinson. With 98 catches in the past two seasons, Barkley has proven to be a reliable receiver out of the backfield. In contrast, Robinson has only made 45 receptions during the same time frame. Barkley’s versatility as a receiver could provide the Commanders with an additional weapon on offense.
The Commanders are well aware of Barkley’s skills, especially after he torched them for three touchdowns in their previous matchup. One of his impressive catches was a 32-yard touchdown reception that helped the Giants secure a victory. Barkley’s ability to line up in different positions, including the slot and wide receiver, adds another dimension to his game and makes him a valuable asset for any team.
If the Commanders can successfully acquire Barkley, it would be a significant upgrade for their backfield and provide a boost to their offense. With a rookie quarterback expected to join the team, Barkley’s presence could help ease the transition and provide a reliable target in the passing game. The Commanders are looking to make a splash and improve their chances of success in the upcoming season.
Barkley’s Impact on Rookie Passers
Plays like this show how much easier Barkley would make things for a rookie passer. It’s what Peters saw Christian McCaffrey do for Brock Purdy in San Francisco.
Like McCaffrey, Barkley is also a true workhorse on the ground. He gained 962 yards and averaged 17.6 rushing attempts per game, despite missing three contests with an ankle sprain.
Barkley’s the Giants’ most-valuable player, but Washington’s division rivals still haven’t handed him a long-term contract. The Commanders shouldn’t hesitate to take advantage and sign a complete back to recreate a dynamic Quinn once had with the Atlanta Falcons.
Peters worked with head coach Kyle Shanahan for the 49ers. Shanahan was offensive coordinator for Quinn when the Falcons reached the 2017 Super Bowl.
They got there largely on the strength of a dynamic running game fronted by Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman. Freeman was the featured back who rushed for 1,079 yards and still caught 54 passes. Coleman offered a more versatile threat on third downs, reeling in 31 catches and still adding 118 carries to the ground attack.
There’s no reason why the Commanders couldn’t form a similar one-two punch with Barkley and Robinson. It wouldn’t need to work exactly the same way, but the double act would surely cause defenses plenty of problems.
Robinson’s never going to be a premium receiving threat, but he’s a capable grinder who’s still needed since Antonio Gibson is a free agent. If Gibson moves on, replacing him with Barkley would more than soften the blow.
Barkley is open to testing the veteran market and giving the Giants the chance to match any offers. The Commanders can make that proposition too pricey for Big Blue, thanks to a projected $83,543,548 worth of space under the salary cap.
More than enough to pay Barkley what he deserves.
According to the Source heavy.com