Dan Quinn just made Commanders' stance on Chris Rodriguez Jr. crystal clear

The Washington Commanders caused a stir around the league by making Brian Robinson J. available for trade . Last season's starting running back has no future with the franchise, and general manager Adam Peters is working frantically to get something back in return.

If that doesn't happen, Robinson will be released. Time will tell on that, but head coach Dan Quinn subtly revealed Washington's plans to fill the void left by his pending departure.

There is likely going to be a committee backfield approach. Austin Ekeler is the dual-threat veteran. Jeremy McNichols is a dependable backup and decent specia l-teams presence. The hype is soaring around seventh-round rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt, but asking to assume lead-back responsibilities immediately is a stretch.

Commanders set to deploy Chris Rodriguez Jr. as their short-yardage running back

Chris Rodriguez Jr. is another who could benefit greatly. Quinn was asked about whether the Kentucky product would be taking over short-yardage situations in Robinson's absence by independent reporter Ben Standig. The head coach left no doubt about his plans for the player moving forward.

Yes. And I would say, there are parts of our offense that are a little bit untraditional. We're not traditional in using a lead blocker sometimes in short yardage. But I do like knowing that Chris [Rodriguez Jr.] has that tackle-breaking ability, especially in a short space. But I would say that would be one at the front taking his place.Dan Qui nn

Anyone who thought Rodriguez was still on the roster bubble should think twice. The Commanders have bigger plans for him now, and his big run in Washington's preseason outing against the Cincinnati Bengals did nothing to diminish the optimism.

This is the chance Rodriguez has been waiting for. He flashed immense promise last season when carries came his way. The Commanders resisted the urge to unseat Robinson last season, but they must be suitably impressed by his progress this summer to take the plunge.

Rodriguez is an aggressive runner. His contact balance has improved exponentially since his rookie year. He's performing with more purpose and confidence. The third-year pro might not be a household name just yet, but the Commanders want him to become one.

Washington's running back dynamic won't be a one-man show. Ekeler, Croskey-Merritt, and perhaps McNichols will be involved, too. But when the Commanders get into the business end of the field, that's where Rodriguez is set to take center stage.

Some fans have been clamoring for this over recent months. Now, they'll get their wish.

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