Did the Commanders get ahead of the game for once?
Over the last few years, the Commanders have done a good job of finding running backs on the second and third day of the draft (Antonio Gibson - 2020, Brian Robinson - 2022, Chris Rodriguez Jr. - 2023). This model of adding a backfield threat every year may help save them money once a player’s rookie deal expires.
Washington has also leveraged this model in the past. Alfred Morris is Washington’s single-season rushing leader, gaining 1,613 yards in 2012. His salary was a measly $513,100.