Austin Ekeler is healthy and seeking his next gig. According to Aaron Wilson of KPRC2 in Houston, the veteran running back has been “fully 100% medically cleared for all football activities” following his torn Achilles last September. Per Wilson, Ekeler is expected to generate “solid interest” and intends to play in 2026.
Following a standout stint with the Chargers that saw him average more than 60 catches per season, the RB inked a two-year contract with the Commanders ahead of the 2024 campaign. He was limited to 12 games that year thanks to a concussion, but he was otherwise productive, averaging 6.5 yards per touch. He finished the season with 733 yards from scrimmage and four touchdowns, although his 35 catches represented his lowest total since his rookie campaign.
He entered 2025 atop the Commanders depth chart and collected 81 yards on 19 touches through one-plus games. However, he suffered a non-contact injury during the team’s Week 2 Thursday Night Football matchup against the Packers. It was later revealed that he suffered a torn Achilles, ending his season early.
Now a free agent, the 30-year-old will be looking to revive his career in a new spot. Teams may be a bit wary of Ekeler considering the injury and his age, but he certainly won’t command more than a prove-it contract at this point. At the very least, teams could look to Ekeler to serve as a potential third-down back, and he could also add some experience to any young RBs rooms. Notably, Ekeler also returned 19 kickoffs during his first season in Washington, so perhaps he could contribute to a new squad on special teams.
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