The Washington Commanders are gearing up for their most significant game of the young 2024 season, a Week 6 showdown against the Baltimore Ravens. However, they’ll have to attempt to secure their fifth consecutive win without one of their top offensive weapons, running back Brian Robinson Jr. The Commanders officially ruled Robinson out on Saturday after he was unable to practice throughout the week due to a knee injury he sustained in Week 4 against the Arizona Cardinals.
We have made the following roster moves:
— Activated DE Efe Obada from the Reserve/PUP List and removed him from the injury report
— Elevated RB Chris Rodriguez Jr. and CB Kevon Seymour from the practice squad
— Downgraded RB Brian Robinson Jr. and LB Jordan Magee to OUT pic.twitter.com/GSfOaLNcVL— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) October 12, 2024
Robinson’s knee issue caused him to miss the first two practices ahead of Week 5, but he did manage to participate in a limited session that Friday. He was even able to score two rushing touchdowns in the first half of the Commanders’ victory over the Cleveland Browns. Unfortunately, he didn’t play in the second half, suggesting the injury either worsened or the coaching staff chose to exercise caution. As a result, Robinson won’t suit up for the crucial game against Baltimore, leaving a significant gap in Washington’s offense.
In response, the Commanders elevated running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. from the practice squad. Rodriguez will join Austin Ekeler and Jeremy McNichols in the backfield. While Rodriguez’s promotion provides depth, losing Robinson is a considerable setback for the team, particularly given his strong start to the season and his importance in setting the tone with his tough, physical running style. Robinson has been instrumental in igniting Kliff Kingsbury’s offense, and his absence will be felt, especially against a stout Ravens run defense that presents a significant challenge.
On a positive note, the Commanders received some good news on the defensive front. Efe Obada, the versatile defensive end, has been activated from the PUP (Physically Unable to Perform) list, which bolsters their pass-rushing unit that has gained momentum in recent weeks. Obada’s return adds depth to a defense that will need to step up as the team deals with Robinson’s absence on the offensive side. How much Obada will play remains to be seen, but his presence is a welcome boost for the team.
While losing Robinson Jr. ahead of such a pivotal game is a blow, the Commanders will look to rely on their depth and next-man-up mentality as they face one of their toughest tests of the season against a competitive Ravens team.
