The Washington Commanders and Philadelphia Eagles will square off on Thursday Night Football in a matchup with major ramifications for the NFC East. But will Washington’s top running back, Brian Robinson Jr., suit up after missing the last two games? Let’s go over everything we know about Robinson’s Week 11 status.
What Is Brian Robinson Jr.’s Injury?
Robinson has been sidelined since suffering a hamstring injury during the Commanders’ Week 8 win over the Chicago Bears. The third-year pro posted 65 yards on 16 carries before exiting the contest.
Robinson then sat out for Washington’s Week 9 win over the New York Giants and last Sunday’s loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. On Tuesday, Robinson expressed optimism about returning for the Week 11 edition of Thursday Night Football.
“I think I have a great chance,” he told reporters. ” … I’ve improved tremendously.”
The Washington Commanders would love to have RB Brian Robinson Jr. for Thursday's showdown with the Eagles.
On if he will play on Thursday, BRob said, "I think I have a really great chance…I've improved tremendously…starting to build confidence in it again." pic.twitter.com/x5CeU23ic4
— Scott Abraham (@Scott7news) November 13, 2024
Still, hamstring injuries can linger for a while, and teams wisely exercise caution before rushing players back. However, Thursday’s matchup with Philly is one of the Commanders’ biggest games in recent memory, and they’ll need all the help they can get against one of the NFL’s best run defenses.
Now, let’s look at whether Robinson could return for Thursday’s game.
Is Robinson Playing in Week 11?
Robinson was listed as a limited participant on Monday’s estimated injury report before truly being limited in Tuesday’s practice.
However, Wednesday was a different story, as Robinson was a full participant in practice and was removed from the injury report. He is now listed as active for Thursday’s game against the Eagles.
#WASvsPHI game status
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) November 13, 2024
Obviously, things could change before kickoff in Philadelphia. Robinson could suffer a setback or not feel right during warmups.
Still, at this point, all signs point toward Washington’s top back being on the field with first place in the NFC East on the line.
How Might Robinson’s Return Impact Commanders?
Robinson’s return could be huge for Washington’s offense, which will look to break through the NFL‘s fifth-ranked rushing defense.
He currently ranks second on the team in rushing yards (461) behind rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels (464). Despite missing three games this season, Robinson still is on pace to break his career-high of 797 rushing yards.
Robinson didn’t offer much as a receiver in his first two seasons, and that hasn’t changed in his third campaign. Entering Thursday’s contest, Robinson had just nine catches on 12 targets for 79 yards.
The Commanders rely on veteran Austin Ekeler to handle passing-back duties. Ekeler caught 23 balls (fourth-most on the team) in the first nine games for 255 yards. Though his best days are behind him, Ekeler still can be a dangerous weapon in the passing game.
Jeremy McNichols (38 carries for 19 yards and four touchdowns) rounds out Washington’s RB depth chart.