WAS Robert Henry Jr.
NFL player. Position: RB (Running Back). Team: WAS.
Quick Facts
- Position: Running Back
- Team: WAS (Washington Commanders)
- Height/Weight: 5-9, 196 lbs
- Draft Status: Undrafted free agent (UDFA)
- College: UTSA
Undrafted free agent running back who made an immediate impression in Washington's preseason opener against Miami (Aug 14). Henry rushed 12 times for 75 yards and a 22-yard touchdown—a 6.3 yards per carry average that exceeded second-round pick Kaytron Allen's 3.7 YPC in the same game. Pro Football Focus graded Henry at 72.5 overall and 73.0 rushing, making him Washington's seventh-highest-graded offensive player in the game. Henry showcased "twitchy" breakaway speed and sudden acceleration around the edge, exactly the kind of explosive play the Commanders' anemic rushing attack lacks (just 11 runs of 20+ yards all of 2025). Head coach Dan Quinn praised both Henry and Allen after the game, noting the team showed "no flinch" when Jerome Ford went down to injury, suggesting Henry has genuinely earned continued opportunities. Competing for a 53-man roster spot or practice squad position against Kaytron Allen, Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Rachaad White, and Jerome Ford. While Allen's draft capital gives him the edge in preseason competition, Henry's film grade and efficiency suggest a realistic path to the final roster or practice squad. (per Kaytron Allen Reacts to Commanders' Running Back's Preseason Challenge) and Commanders Running Back Battle Just Took an Interesting Turn)
Profiles as a much better scheme fit than an established teammate if Washington shifts toward zone-blocking concepts, based on direct film study. College production ranks well nationally in yards-to-contact per attempt and breakaway run rate over his final two seasons, though lacks final burst to separate at second level. Washington has track record of rewarding players who prove themselves in camp regardless of draft pedigree. Completely free add on waiver wire and taxi squads, making him a dynasty league bargain. (per 10 Dynasty Fantasy Football Sleepers to Target (2026) - FantasyPros)
Roster battle context (Aug 22): Fan polling at Hogs Haven revealed draft pedigree bias—60% of readers would cut Henry if Washington keeps only 3 running backs, despite his superior preseason performance. This reflects the psychological tendency to give drafted players longer leashes, even when undrafted players outperform. Henry's explosive outside-zone running style, while exciting, creates skill redundancy with Rachaad White, whereas Kaytron Allen's between-the-tackles power fills a structural gap the Commanders need. The competition remains open heading into the final preseason games. (per Would you cut electric Robert Henry or physical Kaytron Allen? Commanders fans have voted)
Role / Depth Chart
Backup/depth running back. Competing with Kaytron Allen (2026 1st round), Antonio Gibson, and other reserves for final roster spot(s). Allen's draft capital gives him the edge, but Henry is now "firmly in the mix" for the practice squad or 53-man roster.
Injury Status
Healthy entering preseason.
Recent News
- 2026-08-15 — Kaytron Allen Reacts to Commanders' Running Back's Preseason Challenge (Kaytron Allen Reacts to Commanders' Running Back's Preseason Challenge)
- 2026-08-15 — Commanders Running Back Battle Just Took an Interesting Turn (Commanders Running Back Battle Just Took an Interesting Turn)
- 2026-08-15 — Undrafted free agent RB rushed for 75 yards and TD in Commanders preseason game (Stock up for Commanders RB Robert Henry)
Open Questions
- Can Robert Henry's preseason burst translate to staying power, or will he fade like typical UDFA preseason standouts?
- Will Henry secure a practice squad or 53-man roster spot with Washington?