Washington’s backfield faces a shakeup as Brian Robinson Jr. will not play Monday night vs. Cincinnati, a move shrouded in trade talk and roster churn. The Commanders reportedly view the 53-man cut as a window to recast the group, elevating Jacory Croskey-Merritt, a 7th-round rookie, whose stock has surged in practice chatter. If Robinson is moved, Croskey-Merritt could instantly inherit lead-back duties, with Austin Ekeler and Jeremy McNichols providing change-of-pace options and Chris Rodriguez in early-down workloads.

Dynasty managers should monitor the situation closely—the move could redefine Washington’s backfield expectations at the worst (or best) possible time. Croskey-Merritt’s breakout potential becomes real if Robinson departs, while Ekeler’s versatility and McNichols’ pass-catching profile add depth to the committee. Rodriguez remains a sleeper carry option if early-down work opens up.

In the short term, the Monday night absence raises questions about Week 1 game plan and fantasy upside. If you’re rostering Washington runners, it’s a prime moment to gauge Croskey-Merritt’s ceiling and to decide whether to stash McNichols or Rodriguez as speculative FFWs, depending on Robinson’s status and any imminent trade moves.