Brian Robinson

Brian Robinson Bio

Brian Kabir Robinson Jr. is an American professional football running back for the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Alabama Crimson Tide, where he was a two-time national champion. Robinson was selected by the Washington Commanders in the third round of the 2022 NFL draft. Prior to his rookie season, he was shot twice during an armed robbery and returned to the team two months later.

Early Life and Background

Brian Robinson Jr. was born on March 22, 1999, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. He attended Hillcrest High School, where he rushed for 990 yards and 18 touchdowns as a senior and was named second team Class 6A All-State. Robinson was rated a four-star running back recruit and committed to play college football at the University of Alabama over offers from Auburn, Georgia, Louisville, Ole Miss, and South Carolina, among others.

Path to American Football

Robinson began his collegiate career at the University of Alabama in 2017. In his debut against Vanderbilt, he scored his first collegiate rushing touchdown in a 59–0 victory. As a freshman, he rushed for 165 yards and two touchdowns while playing behind notable players like Najee Harris and Josh Jacobs. Over the years, Robinson developed into a key player for the Crimson Tide, eventually becoming the featured back in his fifth year.

Brian Robinson Career

Early Career (2022)

Robinson was selected by the Washington Commanders in the third round (98th overall) of the 2022 NFL draft. He signed his four-year rookie contract on May 18, 2022. Unfortunately, on August 28, 2022, he was shot in the knee and glute during an armed robbery but made a remarkable recovery, returning to the field two months later. He made his NFL debut in Week 5 against the Tennessee Titans, where he rushed for 22 yards on nine carries.

Breakthrough (2022-2024)

Robinson’s first career touchdown came in Week 6 against the Chicago Bears, a game-winner that helped secure a victory for the Commanders. He recorded his first 100-yard rushing game in a Week 12 win over the Atlanta Falcons. In his rookie season, he appeared in 12 games, starting nine, and finished with 205 carries for 797 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns. He was recognized as the 2022 Inspiration of the Year by Sports Illustrated and received Washington’s Ed Block Courage Award. In the 2023 season, Robinson continued to excel, achieving six receptions for 119 yards and a touchdown in a game against the Seattle Seahawks. He started 15 games, finishing with 178 carries for 733 rushing yards and five rushing touchdowns.

Notable Works and Milestones

Robinson’s signature work includes his impressive performance in the 2021 Cotton Bowl Classic, where he rushed for 204 yards, setting a school record for a bowl game. He was also a two-time CFP national champion and earned First-team All-SEC honors in 2021.