Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

49ers' Brian Robinson confident he and Christian McCaffrey will be NFL's 'best duo'

Originally posted on 49ers Webzone | By David Bonilla | Last updated Aug 25, 2025 5:02 PM ET

Running back Brian Robinson Jr. spoke to reporters for the first time since being traded from the Washington Commanders to the San Francisco 49ers. Robinson is expected to serve as the primary backup to Christian McCaffrey, strengthening a running back room that also includes second-year player Isaac Guerendo.

Robinson is already familiar with the high demands head coach Kyle Shanahan places on his backs, with the run game being a cornerstone of the 49ers' offense. And he's not backing down from the challenge.

"I'm very aware of how Coach Shanahan likes to run his offense with his backs," Robinson said.

Brian Robinson said he's ready to "plug and play" with the 49ers. Today was his first practice with his new team… pic.twitter.com/kIYU3yukIZ— Matt Barrows (@mattbarrows) August 25, 2025

He added that, upon being traded, Shanahan was upfront about how the team planned to utilize him.

"I'm totally aware of how he does his things here," Robinson said. "I'm ready for it. I've been running the ball my whole life, so I'm ready to just plug and play. I came here ready to play, and I want him to be able to use me like that. So, whatever run scheme it is, he can throw me in, and I'm already ready to execute the plays."

Robinson's arrival should help ease McCaffrey's workload in 2025. However, he believes he can play a significant role within the 49ers' offense.

"I see opportunities for myself, regardless," Robinson said. "I know C-MAC is going to do his thing, and I'm going to be ready to do my thing, for sure. Like I told Mr. Lynch (GM John Lynch) before I got here, I'm like, 'Look, I respect everybody, I respect the room, I respect C-MAC, but I'm a competitor. I come here to compete. I'm ready to do my thing, just as well as Christian is ready to do his.

"So, my job right now is just to complement him the best way I can, and we gonna be the best duo in the league."

In three seasons with the Commanders, Robinson totaled 2,329 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns, averaging 4.1 yards per carry. He also recorded 65 receptions for 587 yards and five receiving touchdowns, showcasing the versatility Shanahan values in his players.

This article first appeared on 49ers Webzone and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: