Nov 14, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Washington Commanders running back Brian Robinson Jr. (8) against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

Latest details make Brian Robinson trade look even better for the 49ers

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Adam Holt | Last updated Aug 23, 2025 12:03 AM ET

The San Francisco 49ers made a notable addition to Kyle Shanahan's running game on Friday afternoon. Entering the end of the preseason around the NFL, the 49ers traded for now former Washington Commanders running back Brian Robinson Jr. in exchange for just a 2026 6th-round pick.

Robinson was made expendable for the NFC East foe due to impressive offseason performances by Chris Rodriguez and Bill Croskey-Merritt. Austin Ekeler remains the veteran option for the Commanders, too. The role for Robinson was shrinking on the offense there, but he will have an impact for the niners immediately. Plus, one part of the deal made it sweeter for them.

49ers won't be responsible for Robinson's full salary

According to Mike Garafolo, the Commanders will take on some of the $3.4 million owed to the running back this season. It was part of the agreement between San Francisco and Washington.

The #Commanders have agreed to take on some of the $3.4 million owed to Brian Robinson Jr. this season as part of the trade agreement with the #49ers, sources say.

Our story on the trade: https://t.co/tt3bXJX2iu
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) August 22, 2025

There was some baseline concern with the price tag connected to the RB when the deal was announced, but the 49ers are actually getting a break in that department. That's good work by their front office and creates even more value with the addition.

Christian McCaffrey has impressed plenty so far this offseason as he looks truly healthy once again. That being said, the depth at running back has been tarnished for SF due to injuries.

Rookie Jordan James is out for now, and Corey Kiner is also dealing with an ailment. Isaac Guerendo has dealt with an injury recently as well. San Francisco has already had to move on from depth additions at the position as well due to injuries this offseason. It's been a constant cycle of change in the backfield behind CMC.

As of now, this is the final year of Robinson's current deal. If he proves to be a consistent backup for McCaffrey, the 49ers could look to extend him. That being said, I would not hold my breath on that premise. Jordan Mason played very well for them last season before getting traded to the Minnesota Vikings.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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