Commanders to re-sign Austin Ekeler as veteran makes NFL comeback

Veteran running back Austin Ekeler is set to return to the Washington Commanders, with the team expected to sign him pending a physical.

According to NFL Network, Ekeler spent the past two seasons in Washington but ruptured his Achilles in Week 2 of the 2025 season.

He worked out for the Carolina Panthers last week as he looked to return to the NFL.

The 31-year-old is expected to provide depth to Commanders backfield that already includes Rachaad White, Jacory Croskey-Merritt and rookie Kaytron Allen.

White suffered a shoulder injury on Sunday but returned to the game.

Ekeler was a key part of Washington’s run to the NFC Championship Game during the 2024 season, although two concussions forced him to miss five games.

Across 14 games for the Commanders, Ekeler has recorded 410 rushing yards and four touchdowns on 91 carries, while adding 404 receiving yards from 40 catches.

He also earned second-team All-Pro honours in 2024 after averaging 31.3 yards on 19 kickoff returns.