The recent trade of Brian Robinson Jr. from the Washington Commanders to the San Francisco 49ers has prompted significant changes in the fantasy football landscape. This move not only provides Robinson a chance to serve as a backup behind Christian McCaffrey but also reshapes the backfield dynamics in Washington ahead of the upcoming season.
With the trade finalized on August 22, 2025, Robinson joins a 49ers team where he will serve as insurance for McCaffrey, who has averaged 19.8 touches and 21.8 fantasy points per game since arriving in San Francisco. While Robinson adds depth to the 49ers’ roster, his presence is unlikely to reduce McCaffrey’s workload significantly. Fantasy managers should consider Robinson a late-round target, as he provides value primarily as a backup option.
In Washington, Robinson’s departure clears the way for a running back committee featuring Austin Ekeler, Jacory Croskey-Merritt, and Chris Rodriguez Jr.. Ekeler is expected to handle a mix of rushing attempts and passing duties, while Croskey-Merritt is projected for early-down work. Rodriguez Jr. will likely take on short-yardage and goal-line responsibilities. Croskey-Merritt has made headlines during training camp, showcasing his potential to earn meaningful touches early in the season, making him a preferred target for fantasy drafts.
The trade not only redistributes fantasy values but also signifies a shift in Washington’s backfield approach, which could create opportunities for savvy fantasy managers.
Impact of Godwin’s Injury on Fantasy Rosters
Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers announced plans to activate wide receiver Chris Godwin, alongside left tackle Tristan Wirfs, from the active/physically unable to perform (PUP) list. This step allows the players to practice earlier than they would if they had remained on the PUP list, which would have kept them sidelined until Week 5. However, it does not guarantee their participation in Week 1 of the regular season.
Godwin is expected to remain out until at least October, complicating matters for fantasy managers. Currently designated as “Out” within the ESPN fantasy game, Godwin can be stashed in an IR slot, providing some flexibility for managers looking to bolster their rosters. As long as he retains an injury designation—whether “Out,” “Doubtful,” or “Questionable”—he can remain on IR without needing to move back and forth from active status. This strategic positioning allows managers to draft him now and immediately use the IR slot for another addition.
In recent drafts, Godwin was selected as the WR39 and taken 104th overall. With him sidelined, Mike Evans is ranked as WR19, while rookie Emeka Egbuka is expected to step up as the Buccaneers’ WR2 in Godwin’s absence, ranked at 46th.
Quarterback Battles and Rising Stars
The quarterback situation for several teams is also evolving. The Indianapolis Colts have named Jones as their Week 1 starter, positioning him ahead of Anthony Richardson Sr. This decision provides a steadier presence under center, benefiting key players like Jonathan Taylor, who finished among the top five running backs in rushing attempts last season. Taylor averaged a strong 4.72 yards per carry despite missing three games, making him a reliable midrange RB1 for fantasy leagues.
Rookie tight end Tyler Warren, who had an impressive 32% target share at Penn State last season, is another player to watch. He could become a valuable late-round pick as Jones has historically excelled at targeting the middle of the field.
In a surprising twist, Joe Flacco has returned as the starting quarterback for the Browns, after a successful stint in 2023. While Flacco may not be fantasy relevant himself, his return enhances the appeal of receivers like Jerry Jeudy and tight end David Njoku. Jeudy, who finished as WR13 last season, could see increased targets with Flacco under center.
As the preseason progresses, fantasy managers should closely monitor these developments, particularly the performance of emerging players like Croskey-Merritt, who has gained attention for his impressive preseason outings. His standout performance against the Cincinnati Bengals, where he rushed for 46 yards on 11 carries, showcased his potential as a lead back in the Commanders’ run-heavy offense.
As the season approaches, the shifting dynamics in various NFL backfields and injury updates will continue to shape the fantasy football landscape, offering both challenges and opportunities for managers as they prepare for their drafts.
