Getty Image / Scott Taetsch
When Antonio Gibson entered the NFL Draft, he did so having split time between two positions in college.
During his senior season at Memphis, Gibson had been a running back and a wide receiver.
That made it hard to know what his ceiling was at either position when he was drafted, but an intriguing enough dual threat that the Washington Commanders took him in round 3.
Since drafting him, the Commanders have decided that Gibson is best used as a running back, handing him the ball 577 times over 3 seasons.
Now Gibson wants the chance to show what he can do at his other position on the NFL level.
In a recent interview with Fred Smoot for the Commanders’ website, Gibson revealed that he wants the chance to line up at wide receiver
.@AntonioGibson14 really is that guy
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) July 10, 2023
“Just lining up out wide, like you said,” Gibson said. “I haven’t shown my position. I feel the same way. Every year we talk about it, but it hasn’t happened.”
Gibson also added, “Hopefully, this year, it comes around to where I get to showcase on multiple occasions what I can do out there. First, I love being out there. I have fun out there, and once I get the ball in open space, I’m really that guy.”
Even though he’s been used mostly as a running back, he has had quite a few chances to flash his talent as a receiver. In his 3 NFL seasons, Gibson has made 124 catches for 894 yards and has averaged more than 7.5 yards after the catch per reception in 2 of 3 seasons.
Lining up at receiver would help Gibson remain an important piece of the Commanders’ offense if they decide to give Brian Robinson Jr a larger chunk of the carries in his second season.
The Washington Commanders already have some strong receiving weapons with Terry McLaurin, Curtis Samuel, and Jahan Dotson, but Antonio Gibson would give Sam Howell even more to work with in his first year as the team’s starter.