3 changes Commanders' coaching staff must consider in Week 5 vs. Browns

Commanders must consider running back committee approach

No matter who has been in the backfield for the Washington Commanders this season, they have produced. Whether it was Jeremy McNichols and his two touchdowns against the Arizona Cardinals in Week 4, Austin Ekeler in the games before he sat out due to concussion, or workhorse Brian Robinson Jr. - Kliff Kingsbury's offense has boasted one of the best rushing attacks in the NFL through four weeks of the campaign.

With the potential of Robinson missing this weekend, the Commanders would be wise to start splitting the backfield carries. If this team wins against the Cleveland Browns with or without the former Alabama standout, they need to start keeping their eyes on the horizon.

Washington's running game makes this offense go, But if Robinson suits up and he is already feeling the burden, then perhaps the Commanders can begin to use a more well-rounded approach.

Not to mention that despite only having 13 carries this season through three games, Ekeler is averaging over six yards per carry. Throughout his career, McNichols is also averaging just a pinch under 4.5 yards per carry. They've both proven to be capable veteran performers, so rotating more is a possibility with Robinson not at 100 percent.

The Commanders have a very competent running back room. Even though Robinson is developing into one of the better young running backs in the league with his brutal downhill style of running, it's also a style that lends itself to injuries.

It could be a blessing in disguise to be missing Robinson if he is out against the Cleveland Browns. If the Commanders believe they can win without him despite Cleveland's formidable defense, then he could be fresh going on the road to the Baltimore Ravens next weekend in a game many fans are calling for to be moved to Sunday night.