7 Commanders players on the hot seat entering Week 6 at the Ravens

Austin Ekeler - Commanders RB

Brian Robinson Jr.'s status this weekend is in significant doubt. The star running back missed practice all week with a knee complication and is listed as questionable for the clash. Dan Quinn stated they would take it up until game-time before making a decision, but he's not going to be 100 percent reading between the lines.

Robinson got a reduced workload in Week 5 to preserve his health. The Washington Commanders' expectations are growing with every impressive win. They need their backfield threat firing on all cylinders at the business end of the campaign. If that means missing a couple of games now to fully heal, so be it.

This places Austin Ekeler's production firmly under the microscope. The veteran's been used sparingly throughout the season, gaining just 19 carries and featuring more in the passing game. That could change if Robinson cannot go in Week 6.

Ekeler developed a flair for the big occasion during his prolific stint with the Los Angeles Chargers. The Ravens boast the league's best run defense, so gaining yards on the ground will be difficult. But the former undrafted free agent out of Western Colorado has the experience and proven credentials to find a way.

Dorance Armstrong Jr. - Commanders DE

The Commanders need a strong defensive performance in Week 6. That goes without saying coming up against the star-studded tandem of quarterback Lamar Jackson and running back Derrick Henry. The unit has shown signs of life over the last fortnight, but this is a different challenge entirely.

Dorance Armstrong Jr.'s role is a pivotal one. The edge rusher is starting to demonstrate the qualities that made him such a high-priority target in free agency. He's creating pressure and generating sacks. More importantly, he's improving his prowess against the run. This will be needed in no uncertain terms at the Baltimore Ravens.

Over-committing versus Jackson is simply not an option. He can escape pressure easily with even the slightest window to exploit. Maintaining discipline and keeping the two-time NFL MVP is critical. Anything less is going to cause significant problems in the secondary and at the defensive second level.

Armstrong is coming along nicely. He needs to put together a career-best performance in this one - something that would be a significant help to the Commanders as they go in search of their biggest statement win so far under the new regime.

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