Austin Ekeler Leaves Commanders-Packers Game with Achilles Injury

Austin Ekeler exited Thursday night's game at Lambeau Field with what appeared to be a right Achilles injury as the Washington Commanders fell to the Green Bay Packers, 27-18, on Sept. 11, 2025.

Ekeler went down in the fourth quarter while Washington was attempting to mount a comeback. After delivering a chip block and running a route, he attempted to cut up the field, grabbed at his lower right leg and collapsed to the turf. He was helped off the field by team staffers and did not put weight on his right leg before being carted off.

Ekeler, in his second season with Washington, had eight carries for 17 yards before leaving the game. The play removed one of the Commanders' primary offensive options late in a game that had already been marred by injuries on both sides.

Earlier, Washington defensive lineman Deatrich Wise Jr. left with a quad injury after a Packers player fell on him while he attempted to block a kick. Green Bay also lost wide receiver Jayden Reed early with a shoulder injury. The spate of injuries altered both teams' rotations in the second half as the Packers closed out the win.

There was no immediate official update from the Commanders on Ekeler's diagnosis or timetable for recovery. Achilles injuries can range in severity; historically, a torn Achilles has often required surgery and an extended rehabilitation period, but teams typically await imaging and medical evaluation before confirming a prognosis.

Washington entered the contest hoping to balance its offense around Ekeler's versatility as a runner and receiver. The loss of Ekeler, if confirmed to be serious, would represent a significant blow to the Commanders' backfield plans and could force adjustments to rushing and passing packages in the coming weeks.

The game added to a challenging start to the season for both clubs as they navigate roster health and availability. The Commanders are scheduled to report further updates through the team medical staff and coaching staff in the days following the game. Green Bay will also monitor its injured players, including Reed, as it prepares for its next matchup.

NFL teams typically provide follow-up imaging results and official injury designations in the days after such incidents. The Commanders will face scrutiny over personnel decisions and depth chart adjustments should Ekeler be sidelined for an extended period, and the organization is expected to outline next steps as the medical evaluation progresses.