Antonio Gibson Won't Be Traded by Commanders at Deadline, Ron Rivera Says

Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera vehemently denied any rumors that Antonio Gibson might be traded before Tuesday's deadline.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, Rivera said the third-year running back won't be moved.

Jordan Schultz of The Score reported on Friday morning that opposing teams have called the Commanders about Gibson, but there was a sense they preferred to keep him.

Earlier this week, Ralph Vacchiano of Fox Sports noted Gibson could bring back "a nice return" for the Commanders if they decided to move him.

Gibson's role in Washington has decreased slightly with J.D. McKissic and Brian Robinson Jr. getting the bulk of the reps. He is averaging a career-low 13.2 touches per game through the first seven weeks.

The change in role for Gibson comes as he's been less effective as a running back. He averaged 4.7 yards per attempt as a rookie, but that number dropped to 4.0 in 2021 and 3.8 so far this season.

Washington has increased Gibson's usage as a receiver in 2022. He's averaging a career-high 3.1 receptions per game and 7.7 yards per catch.

Gibson has been one of Washington's most productive offensive players since entering the league. He surpassed 1,000 yards from scrimmage in 2020 and 2021. The 24-year-old has one more year remaining on his rookie contract with a $1.3 million base salary in 2023.

Coming off back-to-back wins following a 1-4 start, the Commanders find themselves in contention for a wild-card spot in a crowded NFC. They are one of six teams heading into Week 8 with a 3-4 record and one game behind the Los Angeles Rams as the No. 7 seed.