Washington Commanders running back Antonio Gibson was placed on injured reserve Thursday, ending his season.
It’s been a roller-coaster ride for Gibson in 2022. When the Commanders drafted Brian Robinson Jr. in the third round, he was expected to cut into Gibson’s carries in 2022. Robinson wasn’t supposed to necessarily take Gibson’s spot in the lineup but offer a different style.
However, in the preseason opener, Gibson fumbled, and Robinson looked decisive, confident and the better overall option. Unfortunately, tragedy struck in late August when Robinson was shot twice in an attempted carjacking. He missed the first four games, and Gibson was back in the starting lineup.
Gibson was Washington’s primary back through the first four weeks but never carried the ball more than 14 times per game. Much of that resulted from offensive coordinator Scott Turner being too pass-happy. Once Robinson returned in Week 5, Gibson began to take on the role of third-down back and would sometimes relieve Robinson on early downs,
Robinson’s return also allowed Gibson to make more of an impact in the passing game, where he thrived when given a chance.
Gibson finished the season with 149 carries for 546 yards and two touchdowns. All were career lows for Gibson. He also averaged just 3.7 yards per rushing attempt, which was more of a result of Washington’s poor offensive line play at times.
Conversely, Gibson established new career highs as a receiver, catching 46 passes for 353 yards with two touchdowns.
Gibson will be entering the final season of his rookie contract in 2023.
