Commanders Fear Austin Ekeler Torn Achilles After Packers Loss

Austin Ekeler, the veteran running back for the Washington Commanders, is believed to have suffered a torn Achilles during a non-contact injury late in their Thursday night loss to the Green Bay Packers. Ekeler was carted off the field and is scheduled to undergo imaging for confirmation, though the injury is widely expected to be season-ending given the nature of Achilles tears. Ekeler, 30, signed a two-year deal with the Commanders and has been a key versatile player, leading the team in carries during the game and serving as the primary third-down back. The injury is a significant setback for Washington, which will likely need to rely more on rookie running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt, who earned Rookie of the Week honors in Week 1. Alongside Ekeler's injury, the team also suffered injuries to defensive end Deatrich Wise and tight end John Bates, among others, raising concerns about the team's health moving forward. Coach Dan Quinn acknowledged Ekeler's importance as a leader and key contributor to the team's offense.