Austin Ekeler is expected to return to the Washington Commanders after the team moved toward signing the former Los Angeles Chargers running back ahead of Week 4. The addition is contingent on him passing a physical.
Ekeler spent his first seven NFL seasons with Los Angeles and led the league in total touchdowns in both 2021 and 2022. He scored 20 touchdowns in 2021 and 18 the following season, although he has not been selected to a Pro Bowl.
After the 2023 season, Ekeler joined Washington as a free agent and remained with the team for the next two years. His 2025 campaign ended in Week 2 because of a torn Achilles, followed by an extended rehabilitation period.
Ekeler visited the Carolina Panthers the previous week but did not sign with them. The Commanders then moved to reunite with him. NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported that Ekeler had recovered from the injury and was headed back to Washington.
The move comes as Washington seeks help for its running game. The Commanders could also be without starting quarterback Jayden Daniels for an unspecified period, according to the source. Further details about Daniels' availability were not provided.
