Is Brian Robinson Jr. Injured or Playing In Week 5? Should I Start Jeremy McNichols For Fantasy Football?

Washington Commanders running back Brian Robinson Jr. (knee) has been on a tear this season. The Commanders have unexpectedly had a fantastic overall running scheme, and Robinson has led the way, being the clear feature back through four games and now ranking as the RB11 overall.

He's had double-digit fantasy points in all four of his contests, and had his biggest game in Week 4, when he scored 20.60 PPR fantasy points through 21 carries for 101 yards and a touchdown along with three catches on three targets for 12 yards. He's been a stud so far.

Unfortunately, he was placed on the injury report after Week 5. So is he still injured or will he play in Week 5? Should you start Jeremy McNichols instead? Let's dive in.

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Is Brian Robinson Jr. Playing In Week 5?

He's dealing with a knee issue and as of Thursday is considered a game-time decision. He missed both Wednesday and Thursday's practices, but returned to practice Friday. After Washington head coach Dan Quinn stated that he was "trending in the right direction" to play in Week 5, Robinson himself said he feels a lot better.

Brian Robinson, dealing with a knee injury, tells us he feels a lot better than he did earlier in the week and he'll be a game time decision Sunday. Wouldn't say when he injured his knee, but he did practice Friday after sitting out Wednesday and Thursday #Commanders @wusa9 https://t.co/hRRGFy6AHO pic.twitter.com/f8DjHKnELM

— John Doran (@JohnDoranTV) October 4, 2024

He reiterated that he is indeed a game-time decision, so unfortunately for fantasy managers, they'll need to continue checking for updates. His game status must be revealed 90 minutes before kickoff at the latest, so managers should be prepared to check for news around that time.

Should I Start Jeremy McNichols for Fantasy Football Week 5?

McNichols did have a very nice game against the Arizona Cardinals in Week 5, but it was a blowout game, and often the backup running backs get a chance to shine when the score is out of reach. The Commanders demolished the Cardinals 42-14, and Robinson got all the meaningful work.

Jeremy McNichols.

Started with a big Pass Pro block against Cincy on MNF. We’ve seen the 2 TD runs last week against the Cardinals.

His last meaningful playing time was 2020 with the Titans. Been in the league since 2017 on and off of rosters.

A true Professional. Ready to… pic.twitter.com/hSz3iseRp9

— Last of the Fullbacks (@TheLastFullback) October 3, 2024

It was a great moment for him, but the added context is that usual backup running back Austin Ekeler missed the game with a concussion, and is now off the injury report and ready to go for Week 5, when the Commanders face the Cleveland Browns. If Robinson plays, McNichols isn't likely to be a factor at all.

The Browns also have a much better defense than the Cardinals, so it's less likely that the game turns into a blowout. And if Robinson and Ekeler stay healthy throughout the game, McNichols might hardly see the field at all. He's a risky start even if Robinson doesn't play, and is probably better left on benches or waivers.

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