Commanders’ Antonio Gibson: ‘I’m excited, but not just for me’

Don’t overlook Antonio Gibson in Washington’s offense in 2023.

Antonio Gibson rushed for over 1,000 yards in the 2021 season.

Last season he had to give way to rookie Brian Robinson Jr., who became the leading ball carrier. Gibson’s carries were reduced to 149, while Robinson ran 205 times. Consequently, Robinson gained 797 yards and Gibson 546.

What may be missed by many Commanders fans is Gibson was the third leading receiver on the team last season, behind only Terry McLaurin (77) and Curtis Samuel (64), bringing in 46 receptions in 2022.

106.7 The Fan reporter JP Finlay spoke briefly with Gibson Thursday. Here is the link for the segment.

How does Gibson feel about the new offense he was learning in voluntary workouts this past week? “I’m excited, but not just for me. I’m seeing a lot of things for a lot of guys that should open up. He moves us around; we have a lot of things going. ”

Gibson also likes what he saw out of Sam Howell, ” He looks nice. He looks really good. He looks confident, comfortable. He just has to keep competing.”

Following next week’s mandatory workouts, Gibson plans on taking his wife and three children to Hawaii for a little vacation before he has to buckle down for training camp.

In Kansas City last season, Bieniemy got the ball to running back Jerick McKinnon as he was targeted 71 times on passing plays for 56 receptions for 512 yards (9.1 yards per reception) and 9 receiving touchdowns.

Gibson, under the Scott Turner offense, quarterbacked by Carson Wentz and Taylor Heinicke last season, averaged 7.7 yards on his 46 receptions.

Already Gibson is optimistic because of what he has learned thus far in the Bieniemy offense. Might Gibson be getting the ball in space more often in 2023?

If so, no wonder Gibson is already excited.