The Washington Commanders’ backfield is unsettled entering 2026, with no clear feature RB and multiple players vying for a spot on the 53-man roster. Undrafted free agent Robert Henry Jr. emerges as a leading candidate to surprise in camp, after earning the team’s third-largest guaranteed money and earning praise for his burst, pass-game value, and production at UTSA. Analysts note that Henry could edge into a roster role despite being a 5’9”, 196-pound rookie, as the backfield lacks a proven thousand-yard rusher since 2021 and no repeat 900+ yard seasons since 2021. The piece highlights Henry’s college success, including a junior college turnaround and multiple 1,000+ yard seasons at UTSA, along with concerns about ball security and pass protection that could impact his roster chances. Overall, the Commanders’ backfield competition remains open, with Henry positioned as a noteworthy UDFA option to watch in training camp and beyond.
Key takeaways:
– No established feature back for the Commanders; competition is open among Croskey-Merritt, Rachaad White, Kaytron Allen, Jerome Ford, and UDFA Robert Henry Jr.
– Robert Henry Jr. is highlighted as a potential breakout candidate due to speed, elusiveness, and receiving ability, but considerations include size, read/react concerns, and fumbles.
– The team has not had a 1,000-yard rusher in consecutive seasons since 2012–2014, underscoring the opportunity for new contributors to emerge.
