Is Brian Robinson Jr. playing today? Full injury update for Commanders RB in Week 9

Brian Robinson Jr. has emerged as a valuable part of the Washington Commanders' offensive strategy this season. The running back is providing a physical presence as part of his outstanding partnership with Austin Ekeler. He's also getting the carries needed after becoming disillusioned under previous play-caller Eric Bieniemy.

Robinson's status for Week 9 was in some doubt heading into Washington's trip to the New York Giants. The former third-round selection's already missed one game throughout the campaign with a knee issue. Those in power took every possible precaution during the week as another complication emerged.

The Alabama product became a limited participant in practice with a hamstring issue. Robinson was listed as questionable for the clash and the Commanders also elevated Chris Rodriguez Jr. to further raise concerns.

Commanders expect Brian Robinson Jr. to play at the NY Giants

Nothing has been officially confirmed by the team as yet, but Ian Rapoport from the NFL Network provided some extra clarification that should ease fans' concerns. The insider revealed that the Commanders are planning to play Robinson, although they'll see how the player feels this morning before making their decision final.

Having Robinson available will be a big bonus versus a stout Giants defensive front. Just how much he'll be able to feature remains to be seen.

Having him out there means New York must account for his presence at all times. That should open things up in the passing game if the Commanders' offensive line can restrict the likes of Brian Burns, Dexter Lawrence II, and Azeez Ojulari.

It's unlikely that the Commanders will allocate 20 touches to Robinson in this one. Kliff Kingsbury must pick and choose his spots with the team's most prolific running back. Fortunately for the play-caller, he's also got Ekeler and Jeremy McNichols to depend upon if something is missing from an explosiveness standpoint.

Momentum is building on and off the field around the Commanders. Revelations about this once proud franchise becoming an attractive destination for players are a testament to how things are unfolding under the new regime. Getting complacent is not an option, especially considering Washington doesn't boast the best record at MetLife Stadium in recent seasons.

Robinson is a big part of the team's future, so the Commanders will err on the side of caution and see how he fares over the opening exchanges. If there's even the slightest doubt, Kingsbury and head coach Dan Quinn won't hesitate to take him out of the firing line.

All signs point to Robinson suiting up. How much he'll be able to contribute is another matter.

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