Commanders' Austin Ekeler out for season with torn Achilles
Imaging confirms right Achilles tear after Week 2 injury at Lambeau Field; team expected to lean on rookie Jacory Croskey‑Merritt
Washington Commanders running back Austin Ekeler will miss the remainder of the season after imaging confirmed a torn right Achilles, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported Saturday.
The 30-year-old suffered the injury late in Thursday night’s Week 2 loss to the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. With under six minutes remaining, Ekeler was running a route when he went down and was attended to by trainers before being helped off the field and ruled out for the remainder of the game. He finished with eight rushes for 17 yards and two receptions for seven yards in the 27-18 defeat.
Ekeler posted a brief message on Instagram on Saturday thanking fans for their support. Team personnel observed the running back leaving Lambeau Field in a walking boot and using crutches.
A nine-year NFL veteran, Ekeler had been Washington’s primary back entering the season. With him sidelined, the Commanders are expected to rely more heavily on rookie Jacory Croskey‑Merritt and the remainder of their backfield rotation while they evaluate options on the roster.
The injury was confirmed by imaging Friday and reported publicly Saturday. The team has not released a full medical bulletin detailing next steps or a timetable for Ekeler’s treatment. Coaches and front-office officials typically address roster and depth changes in the days following a season-ending injury, including potential roster moves and adjustments to the offensive game plan.
The loss of Ekeler removes a veteran playmaker from Washington’s offense early in the season and presents a challenge for the team’s short-term rushing and passing-game plans. The Commanders face a rapid need to reallocate carries and targets among backup running backs and may pursue in-season additions depending on availability and the team’s evaluation of its current options.
Ekeler’s injury comes in the second week of the regular season and follows a high-profile offseason that made the back a focal point of Washington’s offense. The team will provide further medical updates as they become available and is expected to outline how it will adjust personnel and play-calling in the wake of the confirmed Achilles tear.