The Washington Commanders have endured a relatively clear run of luck on the injury front so far this season. This has been an overlooked factor behind their success, but they are dealing with one potential complication heading into Week 6 at the Baltimore Ravens.
Brian Robinson Jr. hasn't practiced all week with a knee issue and is listed as questionable for the clash. He wasn't utilized as much last time out against the Cleveland Browns to prevent any lingering issues. However, the fact he hasn't stepped onto the practice field once raises some serious red flags.
Even if Robinson does suit up, he might not be the barnstorming force that fans witnessed over the first three contests of the campaign. This means veteran free-agent signing Austin Ekeler must brace himself for a hefty workload versus the league's best run defense at M&T Bank Stadium.
Ekeler wanted his next destination to have an established young running back already in place. This has come with diminished and slightly altered responsibilities, which center more on impacting the passing game rather than carving up yards on the ground.
Commanders need to lean on Austin Ekeler's experience in Week 6
The Commanders have given Ekeler just 19 carries through the opening five contests. He's averaging 7.9 yards per carry, so keeping him fresh and picking the player's spots seems to be working well. But with Robinson not at 100 percent, the former undrafted free agent needs to become one of the team's focal points in the backfield alongside rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels.
This is a big game for big performers. Ekeler's shone when the spotlight shines brightest throughout his time with the Los Angeles Chargers. The Commanders need to lean on this whether Robinson is active or not.
Establishing the run will be difficult against the Ravens. They are conceding just 60.4 rushing yards per game through five weeks. Their defensive front is loaded with talent, which is matched by an outstanding second-level led by All-Pro linebacker Roquan Smith. Not every play is going to go for a big gain. But Washington must not abandon the run in pursuit of keeping the defense honest.
Ekeler knows he could have a pivotal role to play. The Western Colorado product has maximized almost every touch so far and has even become a force in the return game for good measure. The Commanders won't task him with 20-30 touches a game many times in 2024. This might have to be one of them if Robinson can't go.
Jeremy McNichols should also see some work. He's flashed real promise over the last fortnight and will be involved in some capacity. However, his previous production and ability to conjure magic when the stakes are highest means Ekeler's role will be more vital.
The Commanders are taking every possible precaution with Robinson, knowing he'll be needed as the campaign progresses as expectations rise about the team's short-term aspirations. If the former third-round pick out of Alabama has any hesitancy whatsoever, having him out there versus high-caliber opposition will do more harm than good.
This is why the Commanders signed Ekeler. It's time to remind the NFL why he was regarded as one of the league's most prolific dual-threat weapons once upon a time. Nothing else will do.
