It was a surprise last week when Josina Anderson of CBS Sports revealed the Washington Commanders had “quietly” made “preliminary inquiries” on free-agent running back Kareem Hunt.
With Brian Robinson Jr. and Antonio Gibson atop the depth chart, running back wasn’t viewed as a primary need ahead of training camp. Then you add 2023 draft pick Chris Rodriguez Jr., who the Commanders reportedly had a third-round grade on, and the interest makes even less sense.
However, let’s consider that Washington’s new offensive coordinator, Eric Bieniemy, coached Hunt during his first two NFL seasons. As a rookie, Hunt led the NFL in rushing yards and was well on his way to a similar season in 2018 before he was released due to an off-field incident.
And Hunt is only 27 years old and will be relatively cheap in 2023.
Hunt is also an excellent pass catcher and, over the last four seasons, played in Cleveland as Nick Chubb’s backup, which means he doesn’t have the wear and tear of many backs entering their seventh NFL season.
So it makes sense as to why the Commanders are interested in Hunt.
But what does this tell us about how Bieniemy views the current backs?
The Commanders love Robinson and view him as the No. 1 lead back. Gibson is entering a contract year, but Washington has mentioned how excited they are about his role in 2023. The former college receiver will have more opportunities in space this season to take advantage of his versatile skill set.
Rivera has mentioned how much Bieniemy loved Rodriguez.
Is Washington’s potential interest in Hunt more of the team doing its due diligence? Or would the Commanders sign him? And if signed, how would he fit in?
There are only so many carries to be had, split amongst three backs. Could Washington be shopping Gibson? There was some interest in Gibson before last year’s trade deadline, and the Commanders had no intention of moving him.
There has been a lot of hype surrounding Robinson and Gibson this offseason. Washington’s potential interest in Hunt wouldn’t seem to impact either for 2023. This appears to be more of a case of Washington doing its due diligence on a talented player with a connection to the coaching staff.
Washington fans would certainly like to hear of the Commanders being interested in offensive linemen or a linebacker.
