Athlon Sports Fantasy Football
WASHINGTON COMMANDERS
INSIDE THE LOCKER ROOM AN NFL TEAM INSIDER FIELDS KEY FANTASY QUESTIONS
What do you expect the split to be between RBs Antonio Gibson and Brian Robinson Jr.?
The Commanders boast arguably one of the best and most functional RB duos in the NFL, with Gibson’s pass-catching ability making him the ideal complement to Robinson’s bruising, workhorse style. But if you’re going to go with one of them, the top choice should be Robinson, who dazzled at times last year (his 82.5 overall offensive grade from Pro Football Focus ranked second among rookie RBs in 2022) and should get the bulk of the carries in 2023. Gibson could still be a good value pick, given his track record of receptions and ability to get into the end zone.
Who will emerge as the starting tight end?
The Commanders defied conventional wisdom by standing pat at tight end this offseason, which demonstrated a surprising level of faith in the team’s holdovers — particularly veteran Logan Thomas. Indeed, at his best, Thomas, who enjoyed a 72-reception breakout season in 2020, would be the clear choice. Thomas, however, has not been the same since an ACL tear in Dec. 2021. The Commanders’ apparent faith in him would indicate they are convinced he will be at 100 percent health.
Will we see playmakers in new roles under offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy?
Bieniemy’s version of the West Coast offense is designed to put the ball in the hands of the playmakers — like wideout Terry McLaurin. Still somewhat underrated in spite of three straight 1,000-yard seasons and a Pro Bowl selection in 2022, McLaurin has succeeded despite constant turnover at the QB position.