Brian Robinson Jr. signs contract with Washington Commanders

It’s official. The Washington Commanders have locked in former Alabama star Brian Robinson Jr.

Robinson is signing a four-year deal with Washington, the team announced Wednesday. Salary details weren’t released. The Commanders drafted Robinson in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft after a huge year for the Crimson Tide in 2021.

As a fifth-year senior in 2021, Robinson rushed for 1,343 yards and 14 touchdowns to help Alabama to the national championship — an eventual 33-18 loss to Georgia. He also got involved in the passing game, catching 35 passes for 296 yards and two touchdowns.

The Commanders drafted Robinson No. 98 overall with their third pick in the draft. They also took fellow former Crimson Tide star defensive lineman Phidarian Mathis in the second round and former Penn State standout wide receiver Jahan Dotson in the first round. Add in former North Carolina quarterback Sam Howell, Washington’s fifth-round pick at No. 144, and the Commanders added plenty of weapons on both sides of the ball.

Phidarian Mathis: I can’t wait to see Brian Robinson add a lot of value’ to the Washington Commanders

In fact, Mathis had some high praise for Robinson as they prepare to take the leap to the NFL together after four seasons together in Tuscaloosa. Notably, he talked about Robinson’s pass-catching ability — which makes him quite a threat in the backfield.

“I see that every day in practice,” Mathis said. “I ain’t surprised. You know, B-Rob [is] a great football player. And I can’t wait to see him add a lot of value to this team.”

Washington also announced Robinson will wear No. 8 — a change after the last few years. He wore No. 24 from 2017-21, but switched to No. 4 to end his college career. He was a big part of the Alabama offense in 2021, and he’ll try to do the same thing with the Commanders as a rookie in 2022.